Acquisition will allow further growth such as more licences and European expansion.
US-based licensed merchandise line and lifestyle brand Her Universe has become part of the Hot Topic family of brands.
Catering exclusively to female sci-fi and fantasy fans – otherwise known as fangirls – Her Universe was started six years ago by Ashley Eckstein (the voice of Ahsoka Tano from Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels), originally as a t-shirt brand.
It has since expanded into wider fashion, entertainment and publishing, featuring brands such as Star Wars, Star Trek, Doctor Who, Marvel and Transformers.
As part of the acquisition by Hot Topic, Ashley (pictured) will continue in her role overseeing Her Universe. It will remain a standalone brand, available at multiple retailers and on HerUniverse.com.
The acquisition means that Her Universe designs will be available in Europe, while it will also be designing some fashion for men. More plus sizes will be available, while the brand will also be adding more licences, active wear and fashion categories.
In a statement to fans of the brand, Ashley said: “The Her Universe brand that we’ve all grown and built together will continue as you’ve known it, but exciting growth and amazing opportunities lie ahead.”
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