Sportlifestyle company PUMA has extended a long-term licensing contract for socks by PUMA with Dutch company Dobotex, the current manufacturer of PUMA socks, as of January 1, 2009. The new licensing deal has a global reach, excluding the United States.
In addition, PUMA and Dobotex signed a new licensing contract for PUMA bodywear with the first collection coming into PUMA own stores by Spring/Summer 2009. The in-store re-launch of PUMA bodywear on a wholesale level is scheduled for Autumn/Winter 2009. The sell-in will start in December 2008. The license contract with former licensee Schiesser Lifestyle will terminate at the end of 2008.
With this licensing deal, PUMA continues its successful range of bodywear, bringing together the PUMA characteristic elements of function and stylish design.
“Dobotex is a true product expert and well respected company in its field of activity and we are very excited to extend the license agreement in geographical spread and product development,” said Jochen Zeitz, Chairman and CEO of PUMA.
“We are very pleased with the extension of our long-term licensing agreement with PUMA,” Dobotex Managing Director Jeroen van Dooren said. “We are looking forward to continue our extremely successful co-operation with such a strong brand.”
PUMA and Dobotex have been in a successful partnership since 1997 with Dobotex producing PUMA socks. Under this agreement, PUMA socks have become the market leader in the sports socks category in Europe in recent years.
Currently, PUMA has also granted licenses for the manufacture of personal care products, glasses and sunglasses, and watches.
