Hartwell Announces Agreement to Bring the Liz Claiborne Brand into the Promotional Products Industry

Hartwell Industries, one of the oldest U.S. providers of apparel for promotional products, has signed a long-term, exclusive agreement to bring Liz Claiborne and Claiborne branded apparel to the industry.

Robert Rene, Hartwell’s chief executive officer, announced the agreement today at the company’s headquarters: “Liz Claiborne is one of America’s leading apparel brands and we are excited and privileged to bring selected merchandise to the promotional products industry.”

Rick Cesere, executive vice president of Hartwell, concurred: “It is amazing that in a $15 billion business where half the buyers are women, we have never had product specifically designed for their needs. Bringing Liz Claiborne’s great styles to this segment is incredible and adding Claiborne menswear to the mix is just icing on the cake. Even though we will not begin shipping until the end of the year, our customers are already standing in line for product. “

Commenting on the announcement, Barry Zelman, vice president and general manager of Liz Claiborne Woman, said: “In studying the promotional apparel market, it was clear that we needed a partner that was a leader in the category. Certainly, Hartwell has the expertise to bring our brands to this industry. Moreover, their team is committed to ensuring that as the Liz Claiborne and Claiborne brands grow in the sector, their special attributes and image are appropriately managed and preserved.”

The formal roll out of the Liz Claiborne and Claiborne promotional apparel line for women and men will take place at the PPAI show in Las Vegas in January 2005.  Details of the Certified Liz Claiborne Distributor program will also be released at that time. 

Liz Claiborne Inc. designs and markets an extensive range of fashion apparel and accessories for women, men, teens, children and infants. The Company also markets fragrances for women and men. The more than 36 brands in the Liz Claiborne Inc. portfolio are available at over 30,000 points of sale worldwide.

Hartwell Industries, located in Hartwell, Georgia, is one of the leading makers and distributors of apparel to the promotional products, uniform and team sports sectors. In addition to marketing Liz, Hartwell sells apparel under the Hartwell, Auburn and MG Sports brands.