Authentic Brands Group announced long term, multi-million dollar deals today with multiple apparel and accessory licensees, and new international partners in the southern hemisphere for Silver Star Casting Company and Iron Star.
Along with Authentic Brands Group's newly acquired Tapout brand, Silver Star presents the opportunity to expand beyond the world of mixed martial arts into a collection-based, lifestyle apparel brand that Kids Headquarters, a division of LF USA, will design, produce and distribute. LF USA currently produces products under the license from Ecko, Calvin Klein, Timberland, Hurley and Under Armour.
“This is just the beginning of our global growth plan for these leading mixed martial arts brands,” said James Salter, chief executive of Authentic Brands Group. “LF USA is the right partner to expand these brands based on their success with iconic and actions sports brands. Our marketing expertise and their design and global sourcing capabilities are an incredibly powerful combination.”
“Silver Star and Iron Star are proven brands with strong consumer appeal and success,” said Rick Darling, president of LF USA. “We look forward to working with James and his team to extend these exciting brands into new categories and markets.”
Slated for delivery in Fall 2011, Silver Star will be distributed through department and specialty retail locations. Iron Star will deliver in Spring 2011 to mid-tier distribution.
Authentic Brands Group also enlisted Concept One in a licensing agreement for men's, women's and children's headwear and bags in the US. Concept One currently manufactures Sean John, Levi's and Ecko, and others. Concept One will deliver Silver Star to department store and specialty retail locations in Summer 2011 and Iron Star in Spring 2011.
Exclusive southern hemisphere licenses were awarded to Atomic in Australia and New Zealand, and Spike in South Africa. Atomic is globally recognized for cultivating Rockstar Energy Drink and Osiris footwear. Spike Apparel has developed Ecko, Ecko Red, Zoo York and Hudson Jeans specifically for the South African market.
ABG owns TapouT, TapouT MPS, TapouT Pro, TapouT Vintage, Silver Star Casting Company, Iron Star, Hitman Fight Gear and Sinister Brand. ABG manages the merchandise licensing programs for the Bob Marley family of brands.
