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The William and Kate Economic Stimulus
The royal couple's engagement could net millions for companies selling everything from mugs to commemorative coins.
Posted 12/ 15 10 at 1:00 AM | News, Sales, International Business, Consumer Products & Services, Manufacturing, Retail, Show Business
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With the engagement of Prince William and Kate Middleton, manufacturers of royal tchotchkes have gone into overdrive -- and the next wedding of the century could net millions for companies peddling official merchandise.For months, companies that make everything from tableware to commemorative coins were waiting (much like "Waity Katie") for the official announcement, along with the date and location, to start cashing in.
But for companies looking to make a quick buck (or pound) on the future king and queen, there are some rules of engagement for this wedding's memorabilia that are different from those when Will's parents, Charles and Diana, married. For one, tea towels will not be permitted because they are considered "in poor taste" and can be destructed. T-shirts and aprons are also banned, as is the use of the Prince's Coat of Arms. A palace spokesperson says the souvenirs and keepsakes ought to be "permanent and significant" -- mugs, plates, trays and coins are permitted.
Images of William and Kate must be approved prior to use, and the acceptable verbiage on items is: "To Commemorate the Marriage of Prince William of Wales and Miss Catherine Middleton, 29th April 2011."
No commemorative merchandise can be made after Oct. 1, giving manufacturers and consumers more than 10 months to get in on the royal action. Neil Saunders, consulting director of retail researchers Verdict, says souvenir sales could reach $28 million.
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Comments (Page 1 of 1)
i think it wonderful that the british people share in the celebration of there prince and his lovely wife to be..i think once and for all they should be thankful for the royal family and with there dedication to royal duties have been the single most in demand attraction that the british can offer the world..the royals have the respect of the whole world and honestly without them england would be a second rate country but there presence elevates them..imagine how much revenue will be generated because of the marriage and yet i hear those stupid unhappy people that would like to see no celebration at all as they feel it is to expensive..well dont the understand what is spent by the government comes back many times over..in fact they should pay prince william for the rite to be allowed to celebrate with him and his family..of course that is not to happen but it is an example of how much they should wake up and support the royals in there happiness and unhappiness..they give there all so the subject should give there thanks.