Licensing association adds new member to Hall of Fame

NEW YORK — The board of directors of the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA) has selected Bernard Leifer, president and CEO of The SG Companies, for induction into the LIMA Licensing Industry Hall of Fame.

The induction will take place at the annual LIMA Awards Ceremony on June 18, 2013 during the industry’s main event, Licensing Expo 2013, in Las Vegas.

“The Licensing Industry Hall of Fame is comprised of the most highly-respected and accomplished professionals in the business – and Bernie Leifer exemplifies the character and dedication necessary to be placed among them,” said LIMA president Charles Riotto. “For more than 20 years, Bernie has left an indelible mark both on our organization and the industry as a whole, and we are delighted to honor him with this well-deserved recognition.”

In 1953, The SG Companies (formerly S. Goldberg) was the first to acquire a license in the footwear category and, under Leifer’s stewardship, continues to be an industry leader in the application of licensed brands, with more than 50 in the company’s current portfolio. In 2006, he added apparel through the formation of the SGI Apparel Group, once again recognizing that licensing would play a critical role in the success of the division. The division has charted tremendous growth in the past six years and holds licenses for numerous premiere properties. In addition, Leifer was a visionary in recognizing the impact licensing could have when rooted in cause-related programs. In 2008, The SG Companies teamed up with the National Breast Cancer Foundation and, to date, has contributed in excess of $100,000 which was attained from a 10% royalty paid on every pair of shoes sold.

Leifer was a dedicated member of the LIMA board of directors for two terms, as well as serving on the executive committee and as LIMA chairman from 2008 to 2010. In addition, Leifer serves as chairman of the American Apparel & Footwear Association, working with policymakers in Washington, D.C. in all matters of international trade.