Prospect Brands, LLC today announced the purchase of Duck Head Apparel, expanding its portfolio which also includes Gerbing, a wearable technology company specializing in heated apparel. 

Duck Head Apparel is one of the oldest apparel brands in the United States.  Founded in 1865, Duck Head “was the original authentic, southern brand that exudes a gentleman's sensibility; Duck Head will be offering an array of timeless classic pieces that have come to define recognizable southern style.”  The company plans to offer a full lifestyle assortment to include: khakis, knitwear, denim, wovens, sweaters, outerwear, t-shirts, headwear and accessories.

“It is rare in a career to be able to lead such an iconic American brand.  I am honored to help write the next chapter of Duck Head's history by adding the brand to our existing portfolio,” said Tom Nolan, President and CEO of Prospect Brands.

Originally founded in 1865, the legendary Duck Head brand was conceived after brothers George and Joe O'Bryan opened an apparel wholesale business after returning home to Nashville, Tennessee, from Civil War duty. The brothers' innovative trouser design, cut and sewn from the closely woven tent material known as “Duck” was later trademarked as Duck Head, and a unique American brand was born. As World War II broke out in 1941, the brothers O'Bryan donated their manufacturing plants to produce nearly five million uniforms for the American men and women fighting for our country.