Miss Universe Organization and WME Announce Expansion of Relationship as Licensing Agent

NEW YORK, June 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Miss Universe Organization announces today that it's expanding its relationship with WME to develop a branded lifestyle merchandising program. As the organization celebrates 60 years of beauty and tradition, this agreement aims to extend the organization's iconic brand into new categories.

"The Miss Universe logo and brand is recognized around the world as glamorous and fashion forward, and this venture will enable us to create a lifestyle brand that embodies who we are," said Donald Trump, Co-Owner of Miss Universe Organization. "With WME as our partner, we want to enter the fashion category with high quality merchandise like sportswear, fashion accessories and executive wear to complement our brand."

WME will be present at the Licensing International Expo in Las Vegas this week meeting with manufacturers and retailers to introduce the Miss Universe concepts. Last month, the Miss Universe Organization announced its collaboration with OPI to introduce the new Miss Universe Collection, a limited edition featuring four new lacquers available in August.

The MISS USA® Pageant celebrates its 60th anniversary and will air live on NBC Sunday, June 19 (9-11 p.m. ET) from the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. The Pageant will feature contestants from all 50 states and the District of Columbia.  The show will conclude with one contestant ultimately being crowned Miss USA 2011.

About Miss Universe

The Miss Universe Organization, a Donald J. Trump and NBC Universal joint venture, is a global community empowering role models of beauty, health and leadership for young women of today. The organization is dedicated to partnering with charities around the world, and to increasing HIV/AIDS awareness by focusing on women's health and reproductive issues. For more information, visit: www.missuniverse.com or Facebook: www.facebook.com/OfficialMissUniverse.

About WME

WME represents elite artists from all facets of the entertainment industry, including motion pictures, television, music, theatre, publishing, and physical production.  WME also advises some of the world's most recognized consumer brands to create entertainment-based marketing solutions. Headquartered in Beverly Hills, WME also has offices in New York, Nashville, London and Miami.

SOURCE The Miss Universe Organization