{"id":35299,"date":"2025-10-17T11:28:02","date_gmt":"2025-10-17T03:28:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/?p=35299"},"modified":"2025-10-23T21:48:16","modified_gmt":"2025-10-23T13:48:16","slug":"ip-vs-licensing-brand-merchandise","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/ip-vs-licensing-brand-merchandise\/","title":{"rendered":"In-House IP vs. IP Licensing: Which Works Better for Your Brand Merchandise Strategy"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"35299\" class=\"elementor elementor-35299\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-dc9a01c e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"dc9a01c\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-baec8a1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-theme-post-featured-image elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"baec8a1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"theme-post-featured-image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/In-house-IP-vs-Licensed-IP-brand-merchandise-strategy_option-1-1024x538.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-35330\" alt=\"In-house IP vs Licensed IP brand merchandise strategy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/In-house-IP-vs-Licensed-IP-brand-merchandise-strategy_option-1-1024x538.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/In-house-IP-vs-Licensed-IP-brand-merchandise-strategy_option-1-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/In-house-IP-vs-Licensed-IP-brand-merchandise-strategy_option-1-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/In-house-IP-vs-Licensed-IP-brand-merchandise-strategy_option-1-1536x806.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/In-house-IP-vs-Licensed-IP-brand-merchandise-strategy_option-1-600x315.jpg 600w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/In-house-IP-vs-Licensed-IP-brand-merchandise-strategy_option-1.jpg 1800w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-84cec44 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"84cec44\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-944e6c1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"944e6c1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">The Rise of Brand Merchandise as a Marketing Strategy in APAC<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5403da8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5403da8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>In APAC, branded merchandise is no longer just \u201cfree gifts.\u201d It\u2019s a cultural connector, a content engine and a loyalty driver. That\u2019s why two major strategies have emerged:\u00a0<\/p><p><strong style=\"font-style: inherit;\">a) Licensed IP collaborations.<\/strong><span style=\"font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;\">\u00a0Fast\u2011food chains and FMCG brands borrow beloved characters to spark immediate fandom. Recent examples include\u00a0<\/span><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/4fingers-quby-blind-box-gwp-licensed-ip-gifts-that-consumers-cant-resist\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">4Fingers x Quby<\/a><\/strong><span style=\"font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;\">,\u00a0<\/span><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/marigold-peel-fresh-gift-with-purchase-miffy-70th-anniversary-foldable-bags\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Marigold Peel Fresh x Miffy<\/a><\/strong> <span style=\"font-style: inherit; font-weight: inherit;\">and <strong>KFC x Mofusand<\/strong> etc.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6bd7555 e-grid e-con-full e-con e-child\" data-id=\"6bd7555\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0f9bc86 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"0f9bc86\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"wp-caption\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/4Fingers-x-Quby-Keychain-Blind-Box-1-1024x538.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-34884\" alt=\"4Fingers-x-Quby-Keychain-Blind-Box\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/4Fingers-x-Quby-Keychain-Blind-Box-1-1024x538.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/4Fingers-x-Quby-Keychain-Blind-Box-1-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/4Fingers-x-Quby-Keychain-Blind-Box-1-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/4Fingers-x-Quby-Keychain-Blind-Box-1-1536x806.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/4Fingers-x-Quby-Keychain-Blind-Box-1-600x315.jpg 600w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/4Fingers-x-Quby-Keychain-Blind-Box-1.jpg 1796w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figcaption class=\"widget-image-caption wp-caption-text\"><\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f424892 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"f424892\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"wp-caption\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"547\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Starbucks-x-Mofusand-merch-SG.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-35305\" alt=\"Starbucks x Mofusand merchandise Singapore\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Starbucks-x-Mofusand-merch-SG.jpg 960w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Starbucks-x-Mofusand-merch-SG-300x171.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Starbucks-x-Mofusand-merch-SG-768x438.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Starbucks-x-Mofusand-merch-SG-600x342.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figcaption class=\"widget-image-caption wp-caption-text\">Starbucks x Mofusand merch. Credit: Starbucks Singapore<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5d823b4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5d823b4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>b) In-House IP.<\/strong> Retailers and service brands invest in creating their own universes \u2013 think <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/guardian-gift-with-purchase-custom-plushie-with-reusable-bag-collectibles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Guardian Singapore\u2019s Beauty Around The World characters<\/a><\/strong>,\u00a0<strong>ZUS Buddy<\/strong> or <strong>Sushi Express<\/strong> etc.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b03a2a3 e-grid e-con-full e-con e-child\" data-id=\"b03a2a3\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-dc7e0a6 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"dc7e0a6\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"wp-caption\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"556\" height=\"557\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-characters-Hong-Kong.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-35306\" alt=\"Sushi Express in-house characters in Hong Kong\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-characters-Hong-Kong.jpg 556w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-characters-Hong-Kong-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-characters-Hong-Kong-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-characters-Hong-Kong-100x100.jpg 100w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 556px) 100vw, 556px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figcaption class=\"widget-image-caption wp-caption-text\">credit: Sushi Express Hong Kong<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e729671 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"e729671\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"wp-caption\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"555\" height=\"556\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-characters.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-35307\" alt=\"Sushi Express in-house IP characters\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-characters.jpg 555w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-characters-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-characters-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-characters-100x100.jpg 100w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 555px) 100vw, 555px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figcaption class=\"widget-image-caption wp-caption-text\">credit: Sushi Express Singapore<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-82ee397 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"82ee397\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1681fae elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"1681fae\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"wp-caption\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"411\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ZUS-coffee-character-merchandise-resized-1024x411.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-35309\" alt=\"ZUS coffee character merchandise\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ZUS-coffee-character-merchandise-resized-1024x411.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ZUS-coffee-character-merchandise-resized-300x120.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ZUS-coffee-character-merchandise-resized-768x308.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ZUS-coffee-character-merchandise-resized-1536x617.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ZUS-coffee-character-merchandise-resized-600x241.jpg 600w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ZUS-coffee-character-merchandise-resized.jpg 1811w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figcaption class=\"widget-image-caption wp-caption-text\">credit: ZUS Coffee<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f09780c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"f09780c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>So which delivers stronger ROI \u2014 borrowing global icons or building your own world of characters? Let\u2019s compare.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4f98d22 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"4f98d22\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5b62c20 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"5b62c20\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Licensed IP Merchandise \u2014 The Shortcut to Instant Relevance<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ade5f17 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ade5f17\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><a href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/licensed-character-merchandise\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Licensed IP collaborations<\/a> plug your brand into a pre\u2011existing fan base, offering quick emotional connection and high collectibility. They often tap nostalgia and global recognition, boosting shareability and sales.<\/p><p>Below are two APAC\u2011specific case studies.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a9c75ab elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"a9c75ab\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Case Study: KFC x Mofusand Collaboration (Singapore)<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6d6606d e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"6d6606d\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-84a38a8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"84a38a8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"wp-caption\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"622\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/KFC-x-Mofusand-Merchandise-Singapore.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-35313\" alt=\"KFC x Mofusand Merchandise Singapore\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/KFC-x-Mofusand-Merchandise-Singapore.jpg 960w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/KFC-x-Mofusand-Merchandise-Singapore-300x194.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/KFC-x-Mofusand-Merchandise-Singapore-768x498.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/KFC-x-Mofusand-Merchandise-Singapore-600x389.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figcaption class=\"widget-image-caption wp-caption-text\">credit: KFC<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e316f61 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e316f61\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>To celebrate Lunar New Year 2025, KFC Singapore collaborated with Japanese illustrator <em>Mofusand<\/em> to launch limited\u2011edition merchandise. From Jan 13 2025, diners could redeem KFC\u2011branded red packets with cereal chicken bundle. Plushie keychains featuring cats dressed as KFC menu items (bucket, egg tart, drumstick) were released weekly and sold at S$12.95 with any cereal chicken box purchase. Each customer was limited to two keychains per transaction. An 8\u2011inch plush of a Mofusand cat wearing a KFC bucket hat was available at S$19.95 from Feb 5 2025 at ten selected outlets. Sticker blind packs were given free with a minimum S$12 spend during breakfast hours<\/p><p><strong>Result:<\/strong>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.timeout.com\/singapore\/news\/kfc-singapore-has-a-mofusand-collaboration-with-cute-merch-like-plushies-plus-new-cny-2025-menu-123024#:~:text=Singapore's%20first%20fast%20food%20Mofusand%20collaboration%20is,just%20in%20time%20for%20Chinese%20New%20Year.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Media coverage<\/a> noted that this was the\u00a0<em>first<\/em>\u00a0fast\u2011food chain in Singapore to secure a Mofusand collection. The novelty of pairing adorable cats with KFC icons generated huge buzz on social media and drove collectors to queue early for each release. Limited quantities and weekly drops created FOMO, with resellers listing keychains for many times the retail price.<\/p><p><strong>Takeaway:<\/strong> Licensed IP collaborations tap into existing fandoms. By adding local twists (cats cosplaying KFC buckets and egg tarts) and scarcity (weekly drops, purchase limits), brands can create viral hype and incremental sales. The KFC x Mofusand campaign shows how an emotive licensed IP can turn a seasonal menu promotion into a must\u2011have collectibles event.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-54bbf66 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"54bbf66\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Case Study: Guardian x Powerpuff Girls (Malaysia, 2024)<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c448bee e-grid e-con-full e-con e-child\" data-id=\"c448bee\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-11a4790 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"11a4790\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"wp-caption\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"451\" height=\"456\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Guardian-x-PowerPuff-Girls-hair-dryer-mini-iron.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-35314\" alt=\"Guardian x PowerPuff Girls hair dryer &amp; mini iron\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Guardian-x-PowerPuff-Girls-hair-dryer-mini-iron.jpg 451w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Guardian-x-PowerPuff-Girls-hair-dryer-mini-iron-297x300.jpg 297w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Guardian-x-PowerPuff-Girls-hair-dryer-mini-iron-100x100.jpg 100w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 451px) 100vw, 451px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figcaption class=\"widget-image-caption wp-caption-text\">credit: Guardian Malaysia<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-02fce09 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"02fce09\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"wp-caption\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"461\" height=\"456\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Guardian-x-PowerPuff-Girls-mini-foldable-washing-machine.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-35315\" alt=\"Guardian x PowerPuff Girls mini foldable washing machine\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Guardian-x-PowerPuff-Girls-mini-foldable-washing-machine.jpg 461w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Guardian-x-PowerPuff-Girls-mini-foldable-washing-machine-300x297.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Guardian-x-PowerPuff-Girls-mini-foldable-washing-machine-100x100.jpg 100w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 461px) 100vw, 461px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figcaption class=\"widget-image-caption wp-caption-text\">credit: Guardian Malaysia<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6796357 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6796357\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Guardian Malaysia partnered with <em>The Powerpuff Girls<\/em>\u00a0to launch a\u00a0Gift-with-Purchase (GWP)\u00a0campaign featuring lifestyle appliances \u2014 a\u00a0portable hair dryer\u00a0and a\u00a0mini portable washing machine. The collaboration ran across\u00a0600+ retail touchpoints, offering fans practical yet playful collectibles styled with the iconic trio.<\/p><p><strong>Result:<\/strong>\u00a0The campaign achieved explosive traction \u2014\u00a0<strong>20,000 units were fully redeemed within 3 days\u00a0<\/strong>of launch, with\u00a0<strong>10,000+ social engagements in just the first 2 days<\/strong>. The combination of utility (appliances) with nostalgic pop culture created high desirability, especially among young adults, and drove rapid sell-through.<\/p><p><strong>Takeaway:<\/strong>\u00a0Everyday appliances can become\u00a0must-have collectibles\u00a0when infused with beloved IP. By blending\u00a0functionality with fandom, Guardian demonstrated how <a href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/licensed-character-merchandise\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">licensed merchandise<\/a> can deliver both practical value and emotional excitement \u2014 driving fast redemption, social buzz, and strong brand love.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-798268b e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"798268b\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bec7e45 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"bec7e45\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">In-House IP Merchandise \u2014 Building a Brand\u2019s Emotional World<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b02f50e elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b02f50e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Developing an in\u2011house IP takes longer but offers unique long\u2011term benefits. Every character belongs to you, strengthening recall and allowing you to tell stories across markets and seasons.<\/p><p>Below are two notable APAC examples.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d9a01fa elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"d9a01fa\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Case Study: Watsons Family (Asia-Wide Launch)<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9d8c87e e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"9d8c87e\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f968e77 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"f968e77\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"wp-caption\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Watsons-In-house-IP-1024x576.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-35319\" alt=\"Watsons In-house IP characters\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Watsons-In-house-IP-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Watsons-In-house-IP-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Watsons-In-house-IP-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Watsons-In-house-IP-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Watsons-In-house-IP.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Watsons-In-house-IP-600x338.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figcaption class=\"widget-image-caption wp-caption-text\">credit: Watsons<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-09eb58d e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"09eb58d\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-69b5c33 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"69b5c33\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>In September\u00a02025, health\u2011and\u2011beauty retailer\u00a0<strong>Watsons<\/strong>\u00a0unveiled\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.aswatson.com\/watsons-launches-exclusive-ip-the-watsons-family-across-asia-to-drive-customer-engagement-brand-loyalty\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>The Watsons Family<\/em><\/a>\u00a0\u2013 an original IP featuring\u00a0<strong>16 characters<\/strong>, each inspired by a different<a href=\"https:\/\/www.myersbriggs.org\/my-mbti-personality-type\/the-16-mbti-personality-types\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a0<strong>Myers\u2011Briggs (MBTI) personality type<\/strong><\/a>. These characters animate Watsons\u2019 own\u2011brand products and stores, turning everyday essentials into collectible, character\u2011themed item. The launch began in Hong Kong and will roll out across mainland China, Malaysia, Taiwan and Thailand. Marketing includes immersive store visuals, social campaigns and meet\u2011and\u2011greet events.<\/p><p>According to Watsons\u2019 customer director, the characters represent a strategic shift from functional retail to experiential storytelling. He cites <a href=\"https:\/\/retailasia.com\/news\/ip-related-product-sales-soar-44894-in-2024\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IP\u2011related products in Asia growing by over\u00a0<strong>448\u00a0% year\u2011on\u2011year<\/strong>\u00a0<\/a>in 2024, underscoring the commercial opportunity. By owning the characters, Watsons can flexibly adapt them to local markets and build loyalty programmes anchored in personality\u2011driven narratives.<\/p><p><strong>Takeaway:<\/strong>\u00a0Owned mascots enable deeper emotional connections because they\u2019re uniquely tied to the brand. By mapping characters to personality types and integrating them across products, campaigns and events, Watsons turns self\u2011care routines into an engaging universe. This fosters long\u2011term loyalty and differentiates the brand from retailers that rely solely on licensed IP.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7e4daa3 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"7e4daa3\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Case Study: Sushi Express Taiwan \u2014 A Nostalgic Comeback with Modern Personality<\/h3>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e7cb69e elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"e7cb69e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figure class=\"wp-caption\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.marieclaire.com.tw\/lifestyle\/whats-hot\/86811\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-Taiwan-Sushi-Dolls-1024x576.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-35320\" alt=\"Sushi Express Taiwan Sushi Dolls\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-Taiwan-Sushi-Dolls-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-Taiwan-Sushi-Dolls-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-Taiwan-Sushi-Dolls-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-Taiwan-Sushi-Dolls-600x337.jpg 600w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Sushi-Express-Taiwan-Sushi-Dolls.jpg 1524w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<figcaption class=\"widget-image-caption wp-caption-text\">credit: marieclairetw<\/figcaption>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3c20a14 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"3c20a14\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>Sushi Express <\/strong>revived its beloved mascot line in June 2025. The refreshed \u201cWalking Sushi Figurines\u201d line modernises Sushi Express\u2019s legacy mascots by giving each a distinct, lifestyle-driven identity \u2014 from skating and music to photography, baseball, and boxing.\u00a0Customers who spend\u00a0NTD\u00a0360\u00a0in a single transaction can purchase a random figurine for\u00a0NTD\u00a0169\u00a0via blind draw at Sushi Express, Sushi Express PLUS and Magic Touch outlets across Taiwan.<\/p><p><strong>Result:<\/strong>\u00a0The nostalgic relaunch stirred excitement among fans who remembered the original 2007 figurines. Limited quantities, blind\u2011box mechanics and membership incentives encourage repeat patronage and social media sharing. By tying the characters\u2019 personalities to contemporary interests, the brand appeals to younger diners while preserving its legacy.<\/p><p><strong>Takeaway:<\/strong>\u00a0Reviving or developing mascots allows F&amp;B brands to build emotional anchors that transcend menu items. Sushi Express demonstrates how adding storylines (adventurous rice balls leaving the \u201crice bucket kingdom\u201d) and sustainable packaging can turn a simple add\u2011on into a collectible event. Such owned IP strengthens brand identity and can be refreshed periodically to re\u2011ignite customer enthusiasm.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-08bb573 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"08bb573\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7e4a859 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"7e4a859\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">In-House IP vs IP Licensing Brand Merchandise \u2014 The ROI Trade Offs<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d6d79b4 elementor-widget elementor-widget-html\" data-id=\"d6d79b4\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"html.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"table-wrap\">\r\n  <table class=\"ip-comparison\">\r\n    <thead>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <th>Factor<\/th>\r\n        <th>Licensed IP Merchandise<\/th>\r\n        <th>In-House IP Merchandise<\/th>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n    <\/thead>\r\n    <tbody>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td data-label=\"Factor\"><strong>Speed to Market<\/strong><\/td>\r\n        <td data-label=\"Licensed IP Merchandise\">\u2705 Plug-and-Play (assets, recognition, and fanbase already established)<\/td>\r\n        <td data-label=\"In-House IP Merchandise\">\u274c Longer Lead Time (requires character creation, narrative building, and rollout)<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td data-label=\"Factor\"><strong>Cost Structure<\/strong><\/td>\r\n        <td data-label=\"Licensed IP Merchandise\">\u274c High Upfront &amp; Royalties (licensing fees, approvals, usage limits)<\/td>\r\n        <td data-label=\"In-House IP Merchandise\">\u2705 Asset Amortisation (higher upfront, but scalable across campaigns without recurring fees)<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td data-label=\"Factor\"><strong>Consumer Excitement<\/strong><\/td>\r\n        <td data-label=\"Licensed IP Merchandise\">\u2705 Instant Fandom Effect (nostalgia, existing cultural equity)<\/td>\r\n        <td data-label=\"In-House IP Merchandise\">\u2696\ufe0f Momentum-Driven (requires consistent brand storytelling &amp; marketing effort to build affinity over time)<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td data-label=\"Factor\"><strong>Brand Equity<\/strong><\/td>\r\n        <td data-label=\"Licensed IP Merchandise\">\u2696\ufe0f Borrowed Equity (brand halo tied to external franchise)<\/td>\r\n        <td data-label=\"In-House IP Merchandise\">\u2705 Proprietary Equity (IP becomes a brand-owned asset, strengthening long-term differentiation)<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n      <tr>\r\n        <td data-label=\"Factor\"><strong>Virality Potential<\/strong><\/td>\r\n        <td data-label=\"Licensed IP Merchandise\">\u2705 Pre-Loaded Virality (fans drive UGC &amp; buzz)<\/td>\r\n        <td data-label=\"In-House IP Merchandise\">\u2705 Tailored Virality (strong if personalised to local culture, consumer insights, or community trends)<\/td>\r\n      <\/tr>\r\n    <\/tbody>\r\n  <\/table>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8f04ae3 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"8f04ae3\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9cbfa4a elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"9cbfa4a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How Marketers Can Decide<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b80dff5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b80dff5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>When to Use Licensed IP \u2014 For Fast Campaign Buzz and Fandom<\/strong><\/p><p>If your goal is quick buzz or a one\u2011off <a href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/gift-with-purchase-promotions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">gift\u2011with\u2011purchase campaign<\/a> (GWP) \u2192 licensed IP collaborations deliver faster ROI. The KFC \u00d7 Mofusand and Guardian \u00d7 Powerpuff Girls campaigns show how limited merch can create viral excitement quickly.<\/p><p><strong>When to Build Your Own IP \u2014 For Long-Term Loyalty and Brand Equity<\/strong><\/p><p>If your goal is long\u2011term loyalty and differentiation\u00a0\u2192 invest in building owned mascots. Watsons Family and Sushi Express illustrate how bespoke characters can live across products, stores and digital channels, deepening emotional ties over time.<\/p><p><strong>The Hybrid Strategy \u2014 Combine Licensed Appeal with Owned Continuity<\/strong><\/p><p>Pro tip:\u00a0Many brands now do both \u2014 borrow star power for seasonal spikes while developing proprietary characters for continuity. This mixed strategy balances short\u2011term buzz with sustainable brand equity.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b86f101 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"b86f101\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"538\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/In-house-IP-vs-Licensed-IP-brand-merchandise-strategy_option2-1024x538.jpg\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-35331\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/In-house-IP-vs-Licensed-IP-brand-merchandise-strategy_option2-1024x538.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/In-house-IP-vs-Licensed-IP-brand-merchandise-strategy_option2-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/In-house-IP-vs-Licensed-IP-brand-merchandise-strategy_option2-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/In-house-IP-vs-Licensed-IP-brand-merchandise-strategy_option2-1536x806.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/In-house-IP-vs-Licensed-IP-brand-merchandise-strategy_option2-600x315.jpg 600w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/In-house-IP-vs-Licensed-IP-brand-merchandise-strategy_option2.jpg 2040w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-49e700d e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"49e700d\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7a69fb5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"7a69fb5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Key Takeaways for APAC Marketers<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6fd936b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6fd936b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><strong>Licensed IP = speed, fandom &amp; viral buzz.<\/strong>\u00a0Ride on pop culture to tap into existing fan bases, but be prepared for licensing costs and shared equity. Weekly drops, blind boxes and localised designs amplify excitement.<\/p><p><strong>In-House IP = loyalty, differentiation &amp; long\u2011term equity.<\/strong>\u00a0Characters mapped to personality types or product categories become part of the brand\u2019s DNA. They can be refreshed and localised without renegotiating rights.<\/p><p><strong>Best practice:<\/strong> Integrate <a href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/design-innovation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">thoughtful merchandise design<\/a> psychology \u2013 curiosity, personalisation and usability \u2013 into both approaches to maximise campaign ROI. Creating emotional stories around characters, whether borrowed or owned, turns merchandise into media.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6061fa3 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"6061fa3\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3a798e9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"3a798e9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Crafting IP Strategies That Sell Out and Stand Out<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-af9f7de elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"af9f7de\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>IP isn\u2019t just about pop culture anymore \u2014 it\u2019s about how you make your brand memorable. Whether you choose to partner with a beloved franchise or develop your own mascot, the key is designing merchandise that sparks emotion, drives user\u2011generated content (UGC) and keeps your brand top of mind.<\/p><p>At\u00a0<strong>DTC World<\/strong>, we\u2019ve helped brands across APAC bring both licensed IP and In-House IP Mascot to life \u2014 from\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/4fingers-quby-blind-box-gwp-licensed-ip-gifts-that-consumers-cant-resist\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">4Fingers X Quby\u00a0keychains<\/a> and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/marigold-peel-fresh-gift-with-purchase-miffy-70th-anniversary-foldable-bags\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Marigold X Miffy Foldable Bag<\/a> to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/celebrating-nissin-cup-noodles-anniversary-with-custom-branded-merchandise\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Nissin<\/a> and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/multi-market-custom-promotional-merchandise-for-zespris-gwp-success\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Zespri\u00a0collectibles<\/a>. If you\u2019re planning your next merchandise initiative, let\u2019s explore how to craft a <a href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/corporate-gifts\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">corporate gift strategy using IP<\/a> that not only sells out but also stands out.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-fcd3774 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"fcd3774\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4e8070f elementor-widget-divider--view-line elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"4e8070f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-divider-separator\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b349e40 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"b349e40\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">About the author<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-34e2639 elementor-author-box--layout-image-left elementor-author-box--align-left elementor-widget elementor-widget-author-box\" data-id=\"34e2639\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"author-box.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-author-box\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/jason-cheng-unique-fresh-brand-merchandise-apac-fulfillment\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"elementor-author-box__avatar\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Jason-225x300.png\" alt=\"Picture of Jason Cheng\" loading=\"lazy\">\n\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-author-box__text\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/jason-cheng-unique-fresh-brand-merchandise-apac-fulfillment\/\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-author-box__name\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\tJason Cheng\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-author-box__bio\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Managing Director at DTC World, specialising in APAC brand merchandise, gift-with-purchase, and fulfilment. He helps marketers design collectible, TikTok-ready premiums that drive real sales impact. <\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-19c7693 elementor-button-info elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"19c7693\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/jason-cheng-unique-fresh-brand-merchandise-apac-fulfillment\/\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-icon\">\n\t\t\t\t<svg aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"e-font-icon-svg e-fab-linkedin\" viewBox=\"0 0 448 512\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"><path d=\"M416 32H31.9C14.3 32 0 46.5 0 64.3v383.4C0 465.5 14.3 480 31.9 480H416c17.6 0 32-14.5 32-32.3V64.3c0-17.8-14.4-32.3-32-32.3zM135.4 416H69V202.2h66.5V416zm-33.2-243c-21.3 0-38.5-17.3-38.5-38.5S80.9 96 102.2 96c21.2 0 38.5 17.3 38.5 38.5 0 21.3-17.2 38.5-38.5 38.5zm282.1 243h-66.4V312c0-24.8-.5-56.7-34.5-56.7-34.6 0-39.9 27-39.9 54.9V416h-66.4V202.2h63.7v29.2h.9c8.9-16.8 30.6-34.5 62.9-34.5 67.2 0 79.7 44.3 79.7 101.9V416z\"><\/path><\/svg>\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Connect on <\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-87641b5 elementor-widget-divider--view-line elementor-widget elementor-widget-divider\" data-id=\"87641b5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"divider.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-divider\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-divider-separator\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f18f188 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"f18f188\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a349796 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"a349796\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3><span style=\"color: #e83e4c;\">Read more\u00a0<span style=\"color: #19142e;\">BLOGS<\/span><\/span><\/h3>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b3a4ddc elementor-posts--align-left elementor-grid-3 elementor-grid-tablet-2 elementor-grid-mobile-1 elementor-posts--thumbnail-top elementor-widget elementor-widget-posts\" data-id=\"b3a4ddc\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-settings=\"{&quot;classic_row_gap&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:22,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;classic_columns&quot;:&quot;3&quot;,&quot;classic_columns_tablet&quot;:&quot;2&quot;,&quot;classic_columns_mobile&quot;:&quot;1&quot;,&quot;classic_row_gap_tablet&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;classic_row_gap_mobile&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;px&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]}}\" data-widget_type=\"posts.classic\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-posts-container elementor-posts elementor-posts--skin-classic elementor-grid\" role=\"list\">\n\t\t\t\t<article class=\"elementor-post elementor-grid-item post-34853 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-blogs tag-chiikawa-collaborations-2025 tag-chiikawa-malaysia tag-collectible-merchandise tag-gift-with-purchase-malaysia tag-licensed-character-merchandise\" role=\"listitem\">\n\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-post__thumbnail__link\" href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/chiikawa-2025-brand-collabs-gift-with-purchase-ideas\/\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=&quot;_blank&quot;>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-post__thumbnail\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"403\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Chiikawa-Promotional-Gift-Ideas-Blog-768x403.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium_large size-medium_large wp-image-34854\" alt=\"Chiikawa Promotional Gift Ideas Blog\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Chiikawa-Promotional-Gift-Ideas-Blog-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Chiikawa-Promotional-Gift-Ideas-Blog-300x157.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Chiikawa-Promotional-Gift-Ideas-Blog-1024x537.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Chiikawa-Promotional-Gift-Ideas-Blog-1536x806.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Chiikawa-Promotional-Gift-Ideas-Blog.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/09\/Chiikawa-Promotional-Gift-Ideas-Blog-600x315.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/div>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-post__text\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-post__title\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/chiikawa-2025-brand-collabs-gift-with-purchase-ideas\/\" target=&quot;_blank&quot;>\n\t\t\t\tChiikawa 2025: Brand Collabs &#038; Gift-With-Purchase Ideas in Malaysia\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t<article class=\"elementor-post elementor-grid-item post-33301 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-blogs tag-customised-promotional-merchandise tag-gift-with-purchase tag-licensed-characters tag-promotional-gifts tag-promotional-merchandise-premiums\" role=\"listitem\">\n\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-post__thumbnail__link\" href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/tiktok-friendly-merchandise-turning-gift-with-purchase-into-viral-brand-assets\/\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=&quot;_blank&quot;>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-post__thumbnail\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"403\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/TikTok-Friendly-Merchandise-768x403.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium_large size-medium_large wp-image-33308\" alt=\"TikTok-Friendly-Merchandise\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/TikTok-Friendly-Merchandise-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/TikTok-Friendly-Merchandise-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/TikTok-Friendly-Merchandise-1024x538.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/TikTok-Friendly-Merchandise-1536x806.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/TikTok-Friendly-Merchandise.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/TikTok-Friendly-Merchandise-600x315.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/div>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-post__text\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-post__title\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/tiktok-friendly-merchandise-turning-gift-with-purchase-into-viral-brand-assets\/\" target=&quot;_blank&quot;>\n\t\t\t\tTikTok-Friendly Merchandise: Turning Gift With Purchase into Viral Brand Assets\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t<article class=\"elementor-post elementor-grid-item post-28461 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-blogs tag-ip-merchandise-gift-ideas tag-licensed-character-merchandise tag-popular-ip-merchandise tag-tom-jerrys-merchandise\" role=\"listitem\">\n\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-post__thumbnail__link\" href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/tom-jerry-through-the-decades-how-an-iconic-ip-continues-to-drive-brand-merchandise\/\" tabindex=\"-1\" target=&quot;_blank&quot;>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-post__thumbnail\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"768\" height=\"403\" src=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Tom-n-Jerry-IP-Merchandise-Through-the-Decades-blog-768x403.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium_large size-medium_large wp-image-28629\" alt=\"Tom &amp; Jerry Through the Decades: How an Iconic IP Continues to Drive Brand Merchandise\" srcset=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Tom-n-Jerry-IP-Merchandise-Through-the-Decades-blog-768x403.jpg 768w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Tom-n-Jerry-IP-Merchandise-Through-the-Decades-blog-300x158.jpg 300w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Tom-n-Jerry-IP-Merchandise-Through-the-Decades-blog-1024x538.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Tom-n-Jerry-IP-Merchandise-Through-the-Decades-blog-1536x806.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Tom-n-Jerry-IP-Merchandise-Through-the-Decades-blog.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Tom-n-Jerry-IP-Merchandise-Through-the-Decades-blog-600x315.jpg 600w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/div>\n\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-post__text\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"elementor-post__title\">\n\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/dtcworld.com\/my\/tom-jerry-through-the-decades-how-an-iconic-ip-continues-to-drive-brand-merchandise\/\" target=&quot;_blank&quot;>\n\t\t\t\tTom &#038; Jerry Through the Decades: How an Iconic IP Continues to Drive Brand Merchandise\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t<\/h3>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Rise of Brand Merchandise as a Marketing Strategy in APAC In APAC, branded merchandise is no longer just \u201cfree<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":35330,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center 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center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[51],"tags":[2183,1725,1836,2184,854,1590,2185],"class_list":["post-35299","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blogs","tag-brand-ip","tag-corporate-gifts-malaysia","tag-corporate-gifts-singapore","tag-corporate-gifts-vietnam","tag-gift-with-purchase","tag-licensed-character-merchandise","tag-promotional-merchandise-apac"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Brand Merchandise Strategy: In-House vs Licensed IP - DTC World Malaysia<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"See how brands utitlise in-house creativity &amp; licensed IP in their brand merchandise strategy. 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