Everlast Worldwide Inc. has entered into a Master License agreement for mainland China with Brand Management Holdings PTY Ltd (BMH) of Hong Kong. BMH is a subsidiary of UCCAL PTE Ltd, a distributor and retailer of international apparel brands in China that currently manages over 600 points of sale in support of international brands like Nike Sport Culture, Nike Golf, Jockey, St. John, M. Missoni, Fox, and Kuhle. The license covers The People's Republic of China and will include boxing and fitness equipment, men's and women's apparel, men's and women's footwear and accessories. In the second quarter of 2008, Everlast licensed products are scheduled to ship to a planned 20 Everlast retail locations in The People's Republic of China, expanding upon UCCAL's 165 brand specific retail outlets.
Seth Horowitz, chairman, president and CEO of Everlast Worldwide, stated, “This achieves one of our stated strategic initiatives in utilizing a well established network to build retail distribution and gain new market penetration. Based on our success in the Pacific Rim, specifically in South Korea and Australia, we are excited to offer our premier active lifestyle brand to The People's Republic of China.”
James Chen, chairman of UCCAL, stated, “We are extremely pleased to have this opportunity to bring a truly unique, global sports brand with authenticity to our market. We believe that the potential for the growth of the Everlast brand in this territory is assured and we are certain that the Chinese consumer will not only welcome but embrace the brand.”
Mr. Horowitz continued, “We are enthusiastic about adding this important license with Brand Management Holdings. We have chosen this partner based on their success in building iconic brands in China. They will utilize our global marketing and product development strategies to discover the revenue and profit opportunity in this expanding market.”
