News imageThe Bottom Line, The Bottom Line, When brands collaborate

The Bottom Line

The Bottom Line

When brands collaborate

18 June 2026

Available for over a year

Whether it’s McDonald’s and Cadbury or H&M and Karl Lagerfeld, brand collaborations are booming. From food to fashion, homeware to movies, why are partnerships having such a moment and what makes some 'collabs' succeed while others fail? Evan Davis and his guests explore the deals, the strategies and the creative thinking that turn collaborations into commercial successes. They also consider the consequences of what happens when things don't go to plan?

Guests:

Karen O’Rourke, Managing Director, H&M, UK and Ireland

Gill Williams, head of partnerships, tpf

Rita Clifton, branding expert, former London CEO, Interbrand

Presenter: Evan Davis

Producer: Nick Holland and Sally Abrahams

Sound engineers: James Breard and Andy Garratt

Production co-ordinator: Katie Morrison

Editor: Sam Bonham