MUMBAI: For broadcasters across the globe, one burgeoning source of revenue is in the licensing and retail arena. Preparing to capitalise on this is Discovery Communications.

The broadcaster has announced that Frank Rosales will be the president of the company's retail and licensing division. The division has been rechristened Discovery Commerce.

 
 
Discovery Communications president and CEO Judith A. McHale said, "I am delighted to drop the word 'acting' from Frank's title. Under his direction over the past year, the division turned in an impressive performance and is on track to achieve further gains in 2005. This is a testament to Frank's leadership and management skills. I look forward to his continued efforts to reinforce and expand Discovery branded products around the world."
 
 
Discovery claims that its retail and licensing businesses demonstrated robust growth last year. Discovery Channel Stores, e-commerce and direct businesses all posted double-digit increases for the holiday season and solid increases for the year. Discovery's Global Licensing business launched an expanded assortment of branded products and achieved profitability for the first time and both retail and licensing divisions are well positioned to achieve significant gains this year.

Rosales will provide strategic direction and vision for all of Discovery's retail, e-commerce, t-commerce and licensing businesses. He also will spearhead the search for new ways to leverage Discovery brands in the consumer marketplace through third-party retailers, expanded global licensing endeavors and emerging digital platforms.

He said, "I am excited to be given the opportunity to build on our success and to find new ways to reinforce Discovery's connection to consumers. I am fortunate to work with a highly knowledgeable, dedicated and motivated team and am confident that we can continue to grow our business and add value to the Discovery brand."

 
 
Rosales joined Discovery in 1997 as CFO for Discovery Channel Stores. Most recently, he served as acting president of Discovery Consumer Products. A 25-year retail veteran, Rosales has served in a number of finance and operations roles throughout his career.