IMG signs Global Brands Group as international bags and small accessories partner.
The licensing programme for Karen Millen is continuing to grow, with Global Brands Group coming on board as international bags and small accessories partner.
The new global deal – brokered by IMG – will allow for a number of new opportunities, taking Karen Millen’s bags and small accessories ranges beyond its standalone stores and online and into multi-brand environments and global department stores.
The appointment is part of the retailer’s wider growth strategy. The first collection will launch for the autumn/winter 2019 season.
The partnership follows on from Karen Millen’s footwear licensing deal with Pentland Brands, and IMG’s appointment earlier this year enabling the brand to explore opportunities within new lifestyle categories including swimwear, athleisure and lingerie.
“In order to successfully drive our next phase of growth, I am delighted that we are entering into a licensing partnership with GBG,” said Beth Butterwick, ceo of Karen Millen. “With a long-standing track record of working with other brands to build their global presence and with their expert level of knowledge in designing beautifully crafted accessories, we are excited about what we can develop collectively, to surprise and delight Karen Millen’s International customer base.”
Mike Hiscock, md footwear and accessories Europe, at Global Brands Group, added: “This partnership with Karen Millen is an important initiative as part of our strategy to grow GBG’s portfolio of European fashion brands.
“By leveraging our design and distribution expertise, we see significant opportunities for growth in bags and small accessories. We look forward to working collaboratively with the Karen Millen team to take this category into new markets and channels of distribution.”
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