Nacabi Trading, Inc. has acquired TEHAMA, the high-end fashion golf brand that was co-founded by Clint Eastwood and Nancy Haley. Terms were not disclosed.
“We were immediately drawn to Tehama’s philosophy, culture and story,” says Steven Banks, CEO of Tehama. “Our vision is to evolve the foundation of the brand that was so appropriately established 13 years ago,” he adds. “We believe in the integrity of Tehama, its people and its quality garments.”
“We see endless opportunity for this brilliant brand to move through the upscale sportswear industry into a whole host of related lifestyle categories,” says Gord Peters, President of Tehama. He says that they intend to take the brand back to its roots- for those who seek attributes like natural beauty, honest quality, respect and personal responsibility.
Nacabi said it plans to bring Tehama’s distribution to specialty retailers on an international level, and its management has had experience with highly regarded brands through its businesses Gordon Mitchell, Inc. and Jensan Apparel, Inc. In addition to its signature brand, Gordon Mitchell has held licenses for Alfred Sung and Jack Victor. Jensan Apparel has participated in licensing arrangements for Alexander Julian-Canada and Mexico, Bill Blass Dress Shirts and Boston Traders Sportswear.
Tehama CEO Steven Banks has experienced four generations within the men’s apparel industry in Canada and four decades of involvement in the men’s and boy’s apparel business. He was the Vice President of Sales for Christian Dior Chemise for four years, actively participating in the development of design, marketing and advertising for all Canadian sales.
Tehama President Gord Peters has three generations of experience in the apparel industry, currently acting as President and Owner of Gordon Mitchell, Inc.- an upscale collection of woven dress and sport shirts. Gordon Mitchell sells better independent and chain stores throughout Canada and the USA. Prior to his own venture, Peters served as General Manager for Jack Lipson and H Halpern Esquire.
PG-USA will continue to hold a minority share in the company, with Nancy Haley remaining involved as Vice Chair of the Advisory Committee.
“Nacabi brings the capital, knowledge and experience to take the Tehama brand to new levels within the golf, resort and mainstream retail markets,” she says. “Nacabi and I have the same vision of maintaining the Tehama brand as an industry leader for many years to come,” Haley adds.
The company will be headquartered in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, with operating offices in Denver and Toronto. Susan Shade will continue as President of the Golf Division, Anne Ingham will oversee design and Jamie Meyer will continue as Director of Operations. The current sales force structure will also remain in tact. The company has been proceeding with ‘business as usual,’ and deliveries are on track for both the Fall 2009 and Spring 2010 collections.
