Hong Kong - Apparel supply chain giant Li & Fung has announced a licensing and distribution agreement with US-based Pendleton Woolen Mills, which will see the global lifestyle brand enter the swimwear market.
Pendleton has signed with Li & Fung to launch the brand’s new line of swim and beachwear, featuring men’s and women’s styles sporting iconic Pendleton patterns and colours.
The new line will be available to shop in Pendleton retail stores and catalogues, and at pendleton-usa.com starting in December 2024, and will also be available for wholesale distribution to retailers nationwide.
By drawing on Li & Fung’s experience in swimwear production, Pendleton says will offer customers a new category of apparel featuring sustainable materials and the brand’s trademark durability and classic American style.
The entry into swimwear also adds to Pendleton’s portfolio of licensed products. Renwoned for its blankets, wool shirts, and outerwear, the launch of a swim and beachwear collection will expand Pendleton’s warm weather offerings.
“We’re excited to partner with Li & Fung on our new swim and beachwear collection,” said Bob Christnacht, EVP of Sales and Marketing at Pendleton. “Li & Fung will help us expertly navigate the waters of this new category as we broaden our offering. Pendleton has a rich connection to surf culture, and we cannot wait to bring a new way of experiencing Pendleton products to the market.”
The partnership with Pendleton also marks the continued expansion of Li & Fung’s licensing division. Building on a reputation as a leading private label and branded partner in swimwear, Li & Fung is now rapidly growing a robust portfolio of licensing partners, spanning national brands across varying price points and categories.
“As long-time fans of the brand, we’re honored to partner with Pendleton in pioneering the next chapter of its rich history,” added Mel Limoncelli, senior vice president and divisional head, Li & Fung Brands and Private Label.
“At Li & Fung, we excel in weaving a brand’s DNA into market-leading collections, ensuring each category we develop is an authentic extension of our partners. This new collection will honour Pendleton’s heritage with sustainable styles, ageless fits, and the Pacific Northwest aesthetic that has defined the brand’s iconic legacy.”
