The Ol' College Try
The market is not without challenges, though, with licensing restrictions topping the list. In most cases, artwork and suppliers must be preapproved and permission granted by the school's licensing board before logos can be printed on a product. "Distributors must be licensed by the Collegiate Licensing Co. (CLC) to work with larger schools," noted Woodburn. "They are basically the middlemen when it comes to approving logos on products, and the schools give them the discretion to do so. There are different licenses based on what you intend to sell to the schools and if you intend to sell into the retail market." This can cause headaches, but it can also be a windfall for distributors. "You might be able to get away without a license, but the small investment is worth the time and effort and will give you better access into all areas of a school," Woodburn said.
- Companies:
- Gill Studios