Brand Licensing Europe Alters Hours Due to Queen’s Funeral

This year’s Brand Licensing Europe (BLE), taking place September 20 to 22, has changed its show hours in light of Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral and the U.K. Bank Holiday on September 19.

On September 20, BLE’s hours will now be 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. (originally 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). September 21 hours will be 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (originally 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). The hours of the final day, September 22, have not changed and will remain 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Exhibitor and contractor hours will be changed and communicated directly.

“We have done everything possible to reduce disruption to our visitors, exhibitors and contractors, whilst also taking into account that many people in the U.K. do not wish to work on Monday, September 19, in order to pay their respects to Her Majesty and be with their families on such a momentous occasion,” said Anna Knight, senior VP of licensing at Informa Markets. “Monday is the busiest day for the set-up of the event, and we therefore need a few additional hours on Tuesday morning to enable exhibitors enough time to complete set-up of their stands and to welcome you to the event.”

These changes have impacted a number of timed events that were due to take place on the morning of September 20. BLE and Licensing International will host a joint webinar on September 13, where Knight and Maura Regan, president of Licensing International, will talk through the changes and answer questions.

“We understand that the adjusted hours will require attendees and exhibitors to reschedule meetings on Tuesday morning, and we apologize for the inconvenience this will cause,” Knight said. “We very much appreciate everyone’s flexibility and understanding as we navigate these unprecedented times. We would like to stress the venue will remain open as usual on Tuesday morning for those with pre-booked travel. There are plenty of seating areas and cafes for those wishing to work or take meetings before the show opens at 12 p.m.”