Cole Haan Inks Eyewear Duo

by MR Magazine Staff Jun 25, 2007

NEW YORK – Cole Haan has signed two licenses which will give the footwear brand its first presence in the eyewear market.

B. Robinson Optical has been licensed to manufacture and market sunglasses and ClearVision Optical has been designated as Cole Haan’s prescription eyewear licensee. The two companies’ Cole Haan products will debut for spring 2008.

 Cole Haan by B. Robinson

“B. Robinson and ClearVision understand accessories and offer the highest quality and distinctive design, “ said James Seuss, chief executive officer of Cole Haan. “We are thrilled about this venture as luxury eyewear today is an essential accessory for our consumers. The debut of our new collection reflects our aesthetic of weaving together substantive craftsmanship with modern innovative style.”

Both licenses cover distribution in the US and Canada. The terms of the licenses weren’t specified.

For spring 2008, B. Robinson will release 22 women’s and 18 men’s styles, including basket weave, leather and industrial groups. Retail prices will range from $125 to $500 for some limited edition pieces. The sunwear collection will be available at Cole Haan retail stores and select wholesale accounts.

ClearVision’s optical group for Cole Haan will include more than 50 styles, with retail prices starting at $200 and rising to $500 for limited edition styles. Distribution will include opticians, optometrists, ophthalmologists and optical specialty retailers.

Cliff Robinson, president and CEO of B. Robinson, commented, “The sunwear business in the past few years has seen so much sameness in the market because of overused and oversized logo treatments. Cole Haan sunwear will provide the market with a fresh new brand and new styling not focused on a logo, but focused on design and quality. Cole Haan, with its modern artisan aesthetic and classic American styling, will offer the consumer the differentiation that is needed in the marketplace.”

Cole Haan produces and licenses quality men’s and women’s footwear, accessories and outerwear. A wholly owned subsidiary of Nike, the company’s principal offices are in New York and Yarmouth, Maine.