Awards, partnerships and new collections: a portfolio that spans fashion, entertainment and pop culture
Maurizio Distefano Licensing is proud to share a series of key updates involving some of the most popular and successful properties in its portfolio. Prestigious accolades, high-profile collaborations, and exciting new launches further solidify the agency’s role as a leading force in both the Italian and global licensing industries.
BLUEY HONORED AT THE BOLOGNA LICENSING AWARDS
At the 2025 edition of the Bologna Licensing Trade Fair, Bluey received major recognition at the Bologna Licensing Awards, confirming its success and impact in the entertainment and licensing industry.
The globally acclaimed animated series was awarded in two categories: Best Licensed Publishing Project for the Bluey book line published by Mondadori, and Best Licensed Sustainable Project for the Ecopuzzles created by Lisciani.
These awards—across two distinct yet complementary sectors—highlight Bluey’s versatility and continued growth in the Italian market, not only in television but also in publishing, toys and games.
BLUEY AND BENETTON: A NEW CAPSULE COLLECTION LAUNCHING IN JULY
A vibrant new capsule collection inspired by Bluey will be launched by Benetton at the end of July.
Targeted at young children, the collection will feature cheerful, comfortable apparel that reflects the joyful spirit of the series, combined with Benetton’s signature quality and style.
This collaboration enhanced Bluey’s visibility and presence in the apparel category and with fashion retailers.
BING EXTENDS PARTNERSHIP WITH COSTA CRUISES
The successful collaboration between Bing and Costa Cruises continues into the 2025 season, with the character set to appear aboard two ships in the fleet.
The Bing costume character will take center stage in dedicated family activities and meet-and-greets, offering young guests a fun, immersive experience during their holiday.
This initiative stands as a model of experiential licensing, bringing the brand to life beyond the screen and into real-world interactions.
IRON MAIDEN: CENTAURIA UNVEILS A TRIBUTE COLLECTION TO THE METAL LEGENDS
Centauria introduces an official collection celebrating Iron Maiden, one of the most iconic and influential bands in heavy metal history.
The line includes highly detailed collectibles, exclusive merchandise, and products inspired by the band’s powerful visual universe, with a special focus on Eddie, the legendary mascot.
Designed for a cross-generational fanbase, the collection demonstrates the strength of licensing in the world of collectibles and newsstand publishing, offering products with strong cultural and symbolic appeal.
EASTER 2025: A SEASON FULL OF LICENSED TREATS
This Easter, licensed products enjoyed wide visibility across Italian retail outlets. Highlights included Dolfin’s chocolate eggs featuring Bing, Bluey, and L.O.L. Surprise!; Bauli’s egg and mini colomba with Masha and the Bear; and Balocco’s Easter eggs for ALVINNN!!! & The Chipmunks. Zaini’s mini chocolate eggs, inspired by CoComelon, Blippi, and Masha and the Bear, proved ideal for fun-filled Easter egg hunts.
For adult consumers, the Baileys-branded colomba by Bauli stood out with its rich and indulgent flavor.
These successes once again reflect Maurizio Distefano Licensing’s continued commitment to developing valuable, forward-thinking projects. With creativity, expertise, and strategic vision at its core, the agency continues to drive growth and innovation across its entire brand portfolio.
