Global licensing trade association LIMA has established an office in Canada as the country continues to grow its trademark presence. And Andrew Menceles, president of Toronto-based JAM Brands, will lead the charge as director of LIMA Canada.

LIMA’s goal is to unite licensing professionals in the country by developing regional educational and networking opportunities. The association is not only looking to reach Canadians directly involved in licensing, but also those whose businesses are somehow connected to the industry.

LIMA Canada launches May 3 with an inaugural event at the Westin Prince Hotel in Toronto that will feature a panel discussion with leaders in Canadian retail, marketing, law and education. The LIMA Canada board of advisors will also be introduced at this time.

Since its inception in 1985, the New York-headquartered organization has greatly expand its global presence. It now has members in more than 35 countries, with offices in London, Munich, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Melbourne, and has representatives in Italy, Korea, Spain, Turkey and the Middle East. And LIMA recently appointed Rutika Malaviya as its rep for India.

The perks of being a LIMA member include access to LIMANET–an interactive global licensing directory–educational programming and global networking events. LIMA is the exclusive sponsor of Licensing Expo (which is moving from June to May next year) as well as shows in London, Hong Kong and Shanghai.