Cole Haan is a premium fashion brand that specializes in high-quality footwear, bags, and accessories for both men and women. The brand is known for its stylish designs and exceptional craftsmanship, making it a favorite among fashion enthusiasts worldwide. However, many people are unaware of the parent company behind this popular brand.
In this article, we will explore the parent company of Cole Haan and shed light on its history, mission, and values. We will also discuss how the parent company has contributed to the success of Cole Haan and the innovative strategies it has employed to keep the brand ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving fashion industry. So, let’s dive in and discover the powerhouse behind the Cole Haan brand.
Cole Haan is a global lifestyle brand that specializes in footwear, accessories, and outerwear. The parent company of Cole Haan is Apax Partners, a private equity firm that acquired the brand from Nike in 2013. Since then, Cole Haan has continued to thrive under its new ownership, expanding its product lines and retail presence worldwide.
Who is the Parent Company of Cole Haan?
Cole Haan is a renowned brand that produces high-quality footwear, bags, and accessories. The brand has been around for almost a century and has become a household name in the fashion industry. However, many people are unaware of who the parent company of Cole Haan is. In this article, we will explore the history of Cole Haan and its parent company.
The History of Cole Haan
Cole Haan was founded in Chicago in 1928 by Trafton Cole and Eddie Haan. The brand started as a men’s footwear company, specializing in high-quality shoes that were both stylish and comfortable. Over the years, the brand expanded its product range to include women’s shoes, bags, and accessories.
Cole Haan quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality products that were designed to last. The brand’s commitment to quality and style helped it become a favorite among consumers and fashion enthusiasts alike. Today, Cole Haan is a global brand with stores in more than 60 countries.
The Acquisition of Cole Haan by Nike
In 1988, Cole Haan was acquired by the global sportswear giant, Nike. The acquisition helped Cole Haan expand its product line and reach a wider audience. Nike’s extensive resources, including its research and development capabilities, helped Cole Haan improve its product quality and expand its distribution channels.
Under Nike’s ownership, Cole Haan continued to grow and evolve. The brand introduced new product lines, including apparel and outerwear. Cole Haan also expanded its retail presence, opening stores in major cities around the world.
The Sale of Cole Haan by Nike
In 2012, Nike announced that it would be selling Cole Haan. The decision was made as part of Nike’s strategy to focus on its core business of designing and producing athletic footwear and apparel. In 2013, Cole Haan was sold to Apax Partners, a private equity firm.
The sale of Cole Haan to Apax Partners marked a new chapter for the brand. Under Apax’s ownership, Cole Haan continued to grow and expand its product line. The brand introduced new products, including handbags and small leather goods. Cole Haan also expanded its retail presence, opening new stores in key markets around the world.
The Acquisition of Cole Haan by Authentic Brands Group
In 2020, Authentic Brands Group (ABG) announced that it had acquired Cole Haan. ABG is a brand development and licensing company that owns a portfolio of over 50 global brands, including Juicy Couture, Nine West, and Frye.
The acquisition of Cole Haan by ABG marks an exciting new chapter for the brand. ABG’s extensive resources, including its expertise in brand development and marketing, will help Cole Haan continue to grow and evolve. The acquisition also provides Cole Haan with access to new distribution channels and markets around the world.
The Benefits of Being Under ABG’s Ownership
Being under ABG’s ownership provides Cole Haan with several benefits. Firstly, ABG’s expertise in brand development and marketing will help Cole Haan continue to grow and evolve. ABG’s extensive network of retail partners and distributors will also help Cole Haan expand its reach and access new markets.
In addition, ABG’s ownership provides Cole Haan with access to new resources and technologies. ABG has a proven track record of investing in its brands and helping them achieve long-term success. This investment in Cole Haan will help the brand continue to innovate and produce high-quality products.
The Future of Cole Haan under ABG’s Ownership
Under ABG’s ownership, Cole Haan has a bright future. The brand has a strong reputation for producing high-quality products that are both stylish and comfortable. With ABG’s resources and expertise, Cole Haan is well-positioned to continue its growth and expansion into new markets.
In conclusion, Cole Haan has had a long and successful history, and its acquisition by Authentic Brands Group marks an exciting new chapter for the brand. Under ABG’s ownership, Cole Haan is well-positioned to continue its growth and expansion into new markets, while maintaining its commitment to quality and style.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is the parent company of Cole Haan?
Cole Haan is a well-known American fashion brand that specializes in footwear, bags, and accessories. The parent company of Cole Haan is Apax Partners, a private equity firm based in London. Apax Partners acquired Cole Haan from Nike Inc. in 2013 for $570 million.
Apax Partners has a diverse portfolio of companies in various industries, including technology, healthcare, and retail. The firm’s investment in Cole Haan is focused on expanding the brand’s global reach and strengthening its position in the highly competitive fashion market.
2. When did Apax Partners acquire Cole Haan?
Apax Partners acquired Cole Haan from Nike Inc. in 2013 for $570 million. The acquisition was part of Apax Partners’ strategy to invest in high-growth companies in the fashion and retail industries.
Since the acquisition, Cole Haan has undergone significant changes, including a shift towards e-commerce and a focus on sustainability. The brand has also expanded globally, with stores in over 50 countries.
3. Why did Nike sell Cole Haan to Apax Partners?
Nike sold Cole Haan to Apax Partners in 2013 as part of its strategy to focus on its core athletic brands, such as Nike and Jordan. Cole Haan, which was primarily known for its dress shoes and casual footwear, did not fit with Nike’s athletic focus.
Nike had acquired Cole Haan in 1988 for $95 million and had grown the brand into a global fashion powerhouse. However, by 2013, Nike saw greater potential in focusing on its core athletic brands and decided to divest Cole Haan to Apax Partners.
4. What is the history of Cole Haan?
Cole Haan was founded in Chicago in 1928 by Trafton Cole and Eddie Haan. The company started as a men’s footwear brand and quickly gained a reputation for quality and style. Over the years, Cole Haan expanded into women’s footwear and accessories, becoming a popular fashion brand in the United States.
In 1988, Nike acquired Cole Haan for $95 million, and the brand continued to grow under Nike’s ownership. In 2013, Apax Partners acquired Cole Haan from Nike for $570 million, and the brand has continued to expand globally and innovate in the fashion industry.
5. What is the current focus of Cole Haan under Apax Partners?
Under Apax Partners, Cole Haan has focused on expanding its global reach and strengthening its position in the highly competitive fashion market. The brand has also shifted towards e-commerce and sustainability, with a commitment to reducing its environmental impact.
Cole Haan has also expanded its product offerings, including a new line of sneakers and a collaboration with the athletic brand, New Balance. The brand’s focus on innovation and sustainability has helped it stand out in the crowded fashion market and attract a new generation of consumers.
In conclusion, Cole Haan is owned by Apax Partners, a private equity firm based in London. Despite being owned by a private equity firm, Cole Haan has managed to maintain its reputation for quality and style in the fashion industry. The parent company has provided the necessary resources and support to help Cole Haan expand its brand globally while staying true to its roots. As a result, Cole Haan remains a popular choice for those who value both comfort and style in their footwear. Whether you’re looking for a pair of dress shoes or sneakers, Cole Haan has something for everyone.
