Few brands in history have achieved what Pokémon has achieved.

With over $103.6 billion in licensed retail sales and $12 billion generated in 2024 alone, Pokémon stands as the highest-grossing media franchise of all time — built not on a portfolio of brands, but on one singular IP.

In this episode of Born to License, we unpack the strategy behind that dominance.

We explore:

• How Pokémon leverages generational loyalty
• The role of scarcity in driving collectible demand
• Why collaborations like Oreo and the Van Gogh Museum became cultural moments
• The record-breaking $5M+ Pikachu card sale and what it signals
• How Pokémon continues to evolve while protecting its core identity

This episode is more than a celebration of Pokémon — it’s a blueprint for building an evergreen, emotionally resonant, and commercially powerful brand.

If you work in licensing, retail, entertainment, or brand strategy, this is essential listening.

🎙 Born to License – Hosted by David Born

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