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Unlocking PR Magic: Wicked’s Strategic Brand Collaborations and Cross-Promotions Revealed

By Meagan Poole on July 15, 2024

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A still from the Wicked trailer, with Ariana Grande as Glinda leaning over Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba.

The highly anticipated movie Wicked‘s upcoming release involves more than just creating the visually stunning film. It showcases a successful blend of brand partnerships and promotional strategies meticulously planned by the PR and communications departments. These collaborations broaden the film’s audience and elevate interaction with various viewers, shifting from stage to screen. 

Here’s a look into how Wicked is leveraging strategic collaborations to weave in the magic:

  1. Building Block Partnerships: LEGO and Mattel lead the charge in the toys and collectibles market, translating the musical’s iconic characters and scenes into tangible play experiences. This strategic alignment not only makes the fans happy but it extends the narrative beyond theatres into homes and imaginations all over the world.
  2. Fashion and Lifestyle: From Accessory Innovations to LUSH, Wicked partners with brands to bring the musical’s magical world to fans. These collaborations offer themed products for fashion-conscious fans who want to channel Glinda and Elphaba’s spirit in their daily lives.
  3. Retail Amplification: Strategic partnerships with retail giants like Amazon, Target, and Walmart promise that Wicked merchandise is accessible across a wide consumer base. This strategic retail presence boosts visibility and reinforces brand messaging through carefully curated product placements and promotions.
  4. Cross-Media Storytelling: Collaborations with media properties and cultural influencers further elevate Wicked’s narrative, bridging the gap between traditional and digital storytelling platforms. By integrating the musical’s themes and characters into diverse media landscapes, these partnerships amplify audience engagement and foster a deeper connection with the storyline.
  5. Educational and Community Engagement: Wicked is engaging with educational institutions and community organizations to deepen its impact beyond merchandise and media. Through partnerships with schools, libraries, and nonprofit groups, the film fosters learning opportunities and cultural conversations. Special screenings, educational resources, and interactive experiences promote the movie and inspire dialogue about themes such as friendship, identity, and acceptance—central to the story of Wicked.

With Wicked being adapted into a two-part movie, there are many opportunities for ongoing collaborations in the future. This extended narrative format opens doors for continued partnerships that can further delight the fan experience and expand the reach of the beloved musical’s universe.

Wicked‘s PR and communications strategy meticulously transforms partnerships into storytelling opportunities that perpetuate the enchantment of Oz. Leaving no stone unturned, these initiatives elevate brand visibility and cultivate a legacy that extends far beyond mere entertainment. As the movie captivates audiences all over the world, these strategic alliances contribute to its enduring appeal, ensuring that the magic of Wicked continues to resonate long after the credits roll.

Curious about the extensive network of companies partnering with Wicked? Below is a comprehensive list detailing the diverse range of businesses set to feature Wicked products soon:

Lifestyle Collaborations

  • Beis
  • Bombas
  • Cambridge Satchel Company
  • Camilla
  • Daniela Villegas
  • Eugenia Kim
  • Lingua Franca
  • Naeem Khan
  • Pyrrha
  • Rebecca Minkoff
  • Swarovski
  • Sydney Evan
  • Voluspa

Apparel Brands

  • Accessory Innovations
  • Aykroyd TDP
  • Brand Alliance
  • Bioworld
  • Cakeworthy
  • Caprice
  • Crocs
  • Ground Up
  • High IntenCity
  • High Point Design
  • Hybrid
  • Kipling
  • Lola + the Boys
  • Loungefly
  • Mad Engine
  • Poetic Brands
  • Sahinler
  • Sunstache
  • Vera Bradley

Food, Home, and Beauty Licenses

  • Aekyoung
  • Beekman 1802
  • Blissy
  • Conair
  • Dreamtex
  • Franco
  • Hunter Price
  • Hygge & West
  • LUSH
  • Maxwell & Williams
  • Makeup Eraser
  • Manyo
  • Wet Brush
  • Zaks

Retailers

  • ALDO
  • Amazon
  • Bloomingdales
  • Box Lunch
  • Cotton On
  • El Corte Inglés
  • Forever21
  • Kohl’s
  • H&M
  • Her Universe
  • Hot Topic
  • JCPenney
  • Kiabi
  • Liverpool
  • Primark
  • Roots
  • Target
  • Walmart

Toys and Collectibles

  • Mattel
  • LEGO
  • Bitty Boomers
  • Build-A-Bear
  • Chasing Fireflies
  • Disguise
  • Fisher-Price
  • Funko
  • Hallmark
  • Harper Collins
  • Hasbro
  • Hunter Leisure
  • Insight Editions
  • JAKKS Pacific
  • Jazwares
  • Kid Designs
  • The Noble Collection
  • Theory 11
  • Random House
  • Ravensburger
  • RMS International
  • Rubber Road
  • Rubies II
  • Snapco
  • Spin Master

Wicked’s PR strategy shines as a prime example of effective brand collaboration. The film’s release strategy involves strategic partnerships and cross-promotions with various partners, ranging from toy manufacturers like LEGO and Mattel to lifestyle brands and major retailers. These collaborations expand Wicked‘s reach, enhance audience engagement, and create a multi-dimensional narrative that resonates across different platforms and demographics. The ongoing partnerships will help maintain Wicked‘s enchanting legacy as the film’s two-part adaptation progresses.

So, grab your family or friends, and let’s experience the magic together. See you at the movies!

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