KENNETH COLE AND HAGGAR TO CREATE NEW CLOTHING AND FOOTWEAR LINES

Kenneth Cole Productions, Inc. and Haggar Clothing Co announced that they are renewing their licensing agreement in the U.S. for men’s classification bottoms which has been in place since 2003. Additionally, Kenneth Cole has signed a new expanded agreement with Haggar Canada Co. to manufacture, market and distribute men’s and women’s apparel and distribute men’s and women’s footwear effective October 1, 2016. Haggar Canada Co. will also manufacture, market and distribute men’s tailored clothing effective January 1, 2017.

Under the terms of the new license, Haggar Canada Co. will manufacture, market and distribute under the following labels: Kenneth Cole Black Label, Kenneth Cole New York, Reaction Kenneth Cole and Unlisted, a Kenneth Cole Production. The agreement also includes the launch of Kenneth Cole free-standing stores across major markets in Canada planned for 2017.

Kenneth Cole Productions CEO Marc Schneider said, “We look forward to building upon our strong relationship with Haggar. Based on the excellent performance of our men’s classification business in the United States to date, we are pleased to extend our U.S. agreement through 2021 and expand our relationship in the Canadian market. This partnership supports our strategic global initiatives and we are confident that Haggar Canada will continue to contribute to our growth in this important market.”

Michael Stitt, CEO of Haggar Clothing Co., said, “Kenneth Cole Productions is a terrific partner whose labels are both complementary and strategic for Haggar. The extension of the U.S. agreement through 2021 allows us to invest in the product development and marketing necessary to continue the positive trajectory of this business. The new strategic partnership in Canada enables us to utilize our extensive Canadian infrastructure to drive significant incremental growth for both companies.”

This agreement follows the expiration of the term of the men’s and women’s apparel license held by The Jaytex Group since 2002 and the men’s tailored clothing license held by Empire Clothing since 2004. “We are grateful to Jaytex and Empire for their partnership over the years. We intend to work with them to ensure a smooth transition with our wholesale partners and provide a seamless experience for our customers,” added Schneider.