Patagonia, Inc. and Wolverine World Wide, Inc.'s Merrell footwear brand have entered into a long-term global license agreement to produce environmentally friendly Patagonia footwear. The first product line is expected at retail in spring 2007 in over 32 Patagonia stores in the US, Europe and Japan, in Patagonia's distribution network and in premium footwear and outdoor specialty stores.
Under the agreement, Merrell will design, manufacture and market performance footwear under the Patagonia name with rights to other Patagonia brands including Water Girl, clothing and swimwear for women, and Lotus Designs, white-water paddling gear.
"Merrell and Patagonia are kindred spirits in a rapidly changing world," said Jacques Lavertue, president of Wolverine's Outdoor Group. "For many years, Patagonia and Merrell have shared the same space in the hearts and minds of true outdoor enthusiasts around the globe. We have great respect for Patagonia's position as a true leader and innovator in technical outdoor apparel, and its long time commitment to the environment. While technically this is a licensing agreement, both management teams view this as the beginning of a long-term partnership. We are pleased that Patagonia footwear has found a home in Wolverine World Wide's Outdoor Group."
Patagonia designs and markets performance and lifestyle outerwear and apparel and has pioneered the development of environmentally-conscious and innovative outdoor performance products and manufacturing techniques.
Wolverine World Wide, Inc. is a marketer of casual, active lifestyle, work, outdoor sport, after- sport, and uniform footwear. Merrell is its leading reference brand for outdoor performance footwear marketed in over 135 countries around the world.
