Lacoste and Samsonite end leathergoods deal
Lacoste and Samsonite have decided not to continue their leathergoods partnership after eight years of working together. In January 2011, Lacoste’s leathergoods licence will pass to its French partner, Devanlay.
“We are grateful to Samsonite for their help in building this business. Now we are turning the page and starting a new phase of the Lacoste accessories development with Devanlay. Devanlay is Lacoste’s historical partner and we are happy that our collaboration will be reinforced through the granting of this new licence,” explained Christophe Chenut, CEO of Lacoste SA. “This new organisation will allow us to continue the strategy of harmonising the various product lines belonging to the brand and enlarge the offer in Lacoste’s boutiques.”
The Devanlay licence will last until 2023. The company will work alongside Tolomei French Group, which is experienced in designing and manufacturing high-end leathergoods. The two firms have created a joint venture called Cemalac, of which they will each have an equal share. The first collection it produces will be for spring-summer 2011 and will include small leathergoods, bags and sports bags for men and women.
