Features

Ascot extends retail and licensing deal with IMG

Ascot Racecourse has renewed its exclusive on-site retail and global licensing representation agreement with the IMG agency through to 2025.

IMG will continue to manage the on-site retail operation on behalf of the English racecourse, having expanded the retail experience at the Royal Ascot festival from three stores in 2017 to eight in 2019, spanning all four enclosures.

Since being appointed in 2016, IMG has curated a year-round licensing programme of high-profile brand collaborations and products, inspired by the 309-year-old racecourse and its flagship racing festival.

Highlights have included exclusive collections with established British brands including Favourbrook, T.M. Lewin, Oliver Brown, Radley London, Christy’s Hats, Christy and Charbonnel & Walker, with products sold around the world in licensees’ standalone stores, as well as concessions and online.

Juliet Slot, chief commercial officer at Ascot Racecourse, said: “Fashion, accessories and food are key facets of everyone’s experience at Ascot. We have worked hard to create and grow a retail experience for our customers that matches their expectations, and we are delighted that so many wonderful brands are working with us, both on-site and through high-street retail partners. We are excited to continue our relationship with IMG and look forward to further expanding our offering in the future.”

Tim Smith, senior licensing director at IMG, added: “In just a few years, together with Ascot Racecourse, we have developed a carefully curated portfolio of premium partners and products that reflect the brand’s rich British heritage, along with its unique sense of occasion. We are thrilled to extend our relationship with Ascot Racecourse and are looking forward to further expanding its licensed product portfolio, in addition to continuing to build the on-site retail experience.”

Image: Ascot Racecourse