Published 9th April 2026

Aardman appoints CAA Brand Management to handle brand licensing in Japan and across Greater China

Aardman has announced the appointment of CAA Brand Management, the licensing and consumer products division of leading entertainment and sports agency Creative Artists Agency (CAA) to handle our brand licensing, partnerships, live experiences and promotions programme in Japan and across the territories of China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and Macau, effective 1st April.

The appointment reflects Aardman’s growing ambition in Asia; building on the strong awareness and increasing popularity of our brands, Shaun the Sheep and Wallace & Gromit, across the market.

CAA Brand Management, a premier brand development and management business, brings a wealth of experience across a wide range of sectors and services. The agency will oversee Aardman’s entire brand licensing business in these major territories, providing guidance on local brand strategies across consumer products, digital and live events. The partnership will drive growth with new and untapped audiences and deepen existing engagement through a fan-focused strategy rooted in high-quality content, products and experiences. The appointment will strengthen Aardman’s presence in Asia whilst enhancing services and support for key licensing partners as well as attract new licensees to partner with its family of brands.

Alison Taylor, Director of Licensing & Distribution, Aardman said: “We’re incredibly excited to partner with CAA Brand Management across our key markets in Asia. Our brands already have a strong and loyal following in Japan and China, however this collaboration allows us to build on that momentum with a focused and local expertise. Together, we see significant opportunity to unlock new categories and partnerships, to help deepen consumer engagement and support sustainable, long-term growth across Asia.”

Romel Maranon, VP – Brand Management Asia, CAA Brand Management said: “It’s an honor to join forces with Aardman and represent such beloved and iconic brands across Asia. We look forward to leveraging our regional expertise and global network to help Aardman reach new audiences and create meaningful connections with fans. Together, we’re committed to delivering innovative brand experiences and driving long-term growth for Shaun the Sheep, Wallace & Gromit, and the entire Aardman portfolio throughout these dynamic markets.”

The appointment follows Aardman’s recent expansion of its licensing and consumer products team with the promotion of Alison Taylor to the role of Director of Licensing & Distribution. CAA Brand Management will report into Alison Taylor and work with senior managers from across the Brand and Licensing team, including Ngaio Harding-Hill, Director of Attractions & Live Experiences; Kenny England Director of Digital, Social & Communities and Amy Pearson, Director of Brand Marketing & PR.

The Aardman licensing business was previously held by Tohokushinsha Film Corporation (TFC) in Japan and U-Young in China.