Collective Licensing International, LLC has entered into a joint venture with France-based Footwear Europe Export and Trading (F.E.E.T. s.a.s.) called Marque Group USA. F.E.E.T. s.a.s., a subsidiary of Groupe Royer, owns the worldwide rights for the Von Dutch footwear license. Marque Group USA will be responsible for all facets of Von Dutch Footwear in the United States and will launch the Spring 2005 collection of Von Dutch Footwear at the MAGIC Marketplace Tradeshow.
Von Dutch is one of the most innovative and recognized brand names in the fashion marketplace today. Von Dutch Footwear will be a direct extension of the brands authentic product range featuring culturally relevant, vintage-inspired fashion footwear for men and women.
Marque Group USA will be led by Collectives CEO Bruce Pettet and his team of proven design, marketing, and sales professionals with over 100 years combined experience. Marque Group USA has also added industry veteran Bob Landerman as Director of Sales. Landerman brings over 15 years experience to Marque Group USA having served as Vice President of Sales for such notable brands as Dr. Martens Airwair USA and L.A. Gear.
“Von Dutch Footwear has infinite opportunity in the United States with a compelling combination of unique and innovative product, unmatched brand awareness and the talented team at Marque Group USA both here and in Europe,” said Pettet. “Von Dutch Footwear offers distinctive footwear to a diverse market that will speak to essence of this iconic brand.”
Marque Group USA will be responsible for the strategic architecture, collaborative design, sales, distribution and brand communication efforts for the Von Dutch Footwear brand. Guy Rapp, mangaging partner of F.E.E.T. s.a.s., said, “There is such a strong relationship and respect between our team and Collective. Our combined experience and industry knowledge, we believe, will lead to unique and long-lasting success.”
Von Dutch Footwears Spring 2005 debut will include the Moto, Western, Work, and Speed categories. Silhouettes ranging from boots and heels to sandals feature premium leathers, unique applications of color, metallic embellishments, and uniquely Von Dutch logo treatments. The Spring 2005 Von Dutch Footwear collection will sell in specialty boutiques and high-end mall retailers throughout the world.
