Hippo Blue brand licensing case study
One brand. Multiple licensed collections. An 30% growth rate.
Hippo Blue came to Born to License with limited licensing experience and a clear ambition. Multiple collections later, they have a licensing programme that keeps building — with some of the world's most iconic IP behind it.
LICENSES:
Hippo Blue is an Australian e-commerce brand focused on personalised kids’ essentials for school and everyday life — from labels and drink bottles to lunch gear, bags and gifts. The proposition is simple: practical, great-looking products customised with a child’s name, designed to reduce lost property and make busy family routines easier.
THE RESULTS
Transformed Hippo Blue's seasonal businesses into a year-round revenue driver. 30% YoY growth following its Disney partnership. Their annual “Name Day” campaign saw a 987% increase in engagement and 174% increase in YoY sales.
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Hippo Blue, a small family-run business founded by parents for parents, was inspired to create high-quality, personalised products celebrating every child’s individuality. From name labels to bento boxes, backpacks, and more, each item is fully customisable with a child’s name and favourite design.
When Hippo Blue decided to expand into licensing, they sought our expertise to navigate this unfamiliar territory. They aimed to partner with beloved characters to enhance their appeal but needed guidance to make it happen.
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We began by understanding our client’s vision, products, and customer base — identifying a portfolio deal with Disney as the ideal fit. We crafted and presented a compelling pitch to Disney, highlighting Hippo Blue’s unique value, and led negotiations to secure mutually beneficial terms. We also simplified the License Agreement process, ensuring clarity and alignment for all parties before finalising the deal.
With our support, Hippo Blue successfully partnered with Disney, elevating their personalised products and delighting families with iconic characters.
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Once the license was signed, we gained access to Disney’s style guides and assets. Our team reviewed the materials, guiding Hippo Blue through the options to determine the best fit for their products. With a wide range of characters and an extensive SKUs list, our Head of Product Development ensured timely submissions to meet tight production schedules.
All materials were submitted in stages via the Licensor’s approval platform. We streamlined the process by proactively refining submissions to align with approval standards, minimising delays and ensuring efficiency.
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For the product launch, we collaborated with both Licensor and Licensee marketing teams to maximise visibility across all channels, including social media and the Licensee’s website. We also coordinated a press release that gained coverage in multiple industry publications.
With our support, Hippo Blue successfully introduced Disney-themed personalised products, delighting families and expanding their brand into the licensing world.Item description
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We continue to oversee reporting obligations, including quarterly royalty reports, ensuring compliance and accuracy. Our commitment to exceptional service means we’re always on hand to support the Licensee with any needs or challenges that arise throughout the licensing process.
As the programme evolves, we also continue to expand opportunities, having recently secured new licenses with Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery, resulting in upcoming ranges with PAW Patrol and Batman.
“Born to License made the process simple and strategic — clear guidance, fast turnaround, and a brilliant result.”
— Aldo Burcheri, Founder and CEO Hippo Blue
FEATURED CLIENTS:
