• by David Goetzl  @dgoetzl, July 5, 2011

A New Hampshire company could find sales helped significantly by ABC's new fall drama "Pan Am." The business, which owns the intellectual property of the once-iconic airline and sells retro hip bags and T-shirts carrying its distinctive globe logo, has a licensing deal with the show's producers. 

It's not clear if the producers, led by Sony Pictures Television, or ABC will get a cut of profits from any merchandise sales that result from national TV exposure.

Set for a September debut, "Pan Am," set in the 1960s, will revolve around romances and other drama at a time when the airline's pilots were "rock stars and the stewardesses ... the most desirable women in the world."

At least one aspect of the deal is clear: ABC gained rights to use the airline logo in the show.

The entity, known as Pan Am Brands, which has marketed "Pan Am" merchandise since 2007, stated that its agreement has it working with producers to "ensure historical accuracy and image."

"Our agreement to license the Pan Am name to develop this series, is another important step in developing new marketing and promotional opportunities," stated Stacy Beck, Pan Am Brands director of marketing and corporate development.

The company indicated it is counting on "retro-style" with a 1960s inspiration, helped by shows such as AMC's "Mad Men," which has had a collection at Banana Republic, to continue growth.

The company sells branded luggage, passport holders and other paraphernalia. The original Pan Am operated from 1927-1991. There have been attempts to revive it since.