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 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."