Atwood and Madden join forces

26/03/2014
US footwear designers Brian Atwood and Steve Madden have bought the Brian Atwood intellectual property and related assets from The Jones Group.

Mr Atwood has operational and creative control in the design, production and distribution of the Italy-based Brian Atwood designer collection and will continue as an owner and chief creative officer of Brian Atwood intellectual property.

Mr Atwood said: "I've always had a clear vision for the Brian Atwood brand and the women who wear it. I look forward to the next phase of my business with support and expertise of Steve to drive strategic growth and category expansion to continue to create experiences that women love."

The US based Jones Group, which owns brands such as Kurt Geiger and Stuart Weitzman, bought the Atwood brand in June 2012 for an undisclosed amount. At the time, Mr Atwood said:  "I am excited to enter into a deeper partnership with Jones, which has both the business acumen and brand expertise that will help me realise my dream of a fully developed Brian Atwood brand. I look forward to the next chapter - that includes several significant milestones of retail and marketing firsts for my brand."

Mr Madden suggested that the new partnership could include a men’s collection and potentially handbags, alongside a higher end line of shoes. He added: "Brian Atwood is one of the world’s great designers. We feel lucky to have the opportunity to work with him.”