KIT AND ACE TO EXIT U.S., TO FOCUS ON CANADIAN BUSINESS

Kit and Ace, the Canadian apparel brand founded in 2014 by Shannon Wilson, the former lead designer of Lululemon Athletica, and her stepson J. J. Wilson, is simplifying its business plan and operations.

Effective immediately, it is reducing its head office staff and closing its showrooms in the U.S., Australia and the U.K.

Kit and Ace’s focus will shift to its solid Canadian showrooms and global e-commerce platform.

“We recognize the traditional world of bricks-and-mortar retailing is changing, which is why we’re shifting strategies,” said Chip Wilson, founder of Hold It All Inc., the Vancouver-based holding company which owns Kit and Ace. “We believe in the business model for Kit and Ace. Going forward, we will be a stronger company.”

Wilson added, “Fewer stores require fewer people. We remain deeply grateful for the creativity and commitment of those leaving the company and thank them for their valuable contribution.”