USA : Hampshire to associate with JA Apparel Corp

Hampshire Group Limited announced that it has signed licensing agreements with JA Apparel Corp to market men’s tops and women’s related separates under classification labels of the Joseph Abboud Brand.
These new licenses enable Hampshire’s men’s division to become a true year round resource for its retail partners, while affording significant opportunity for Hampshire to broaden the penetration of its related separates business within the department store channel.
The Joseph Abboud men’s knit and woven top business melds Hampshire’s proven ability to market brands and consistently deliver fashion, quality and value to the American consumer, with an established, respected designer brand.
The men’s tops are expected to launch in fall 2008 at an average retail price range of $50.00 to $90.00. The women’s related separates business is slated for a spring 2009 debut.
“We are thrilled to be associated with JA Apparel Corp and to join the team expanding this great brand,” said Michael Culang, acting President and Chief Executive Officer of Hampshire.
“This is a significant opportunity for Hampshire Group in that the marketing of the Joseph Abboud Brand facilitates the extension of our men’s selling season while concurrently diversifying our product offerings, thereby spurring growth for our company and greater market share for our men’s and women’s divisions."
"This is an impressive addition to our cache of brands, one thathas generated excitement and anticipation throughout our entire organization.”

Marty Staff, President and Chief Executive Officer of JA Apparel Corp, remarked that, “Hampshire’s reputation with retailers for delivering highly salable apparel, sought out by consumers for both its fashion sense and quality, makes it the perfect partner to design and market classification apparel that is complementary to our collection business."
"Hampshire’s efforts will certainly help us to further solidify the Joseph Abboud brand’s position as a premier worldwide retail lifestyle brand.”