Fashion & Homeware News South Africa

Nike agrees to sell Hurley surf brand

Sportswear giant Nike has made a deal to sell Hurley after 17 years of owning the company. Nike announced this week that it has reached a definitive agreement to sell the surf and skate brand to Bluestar Alliance for an undisclosed sum.
Nike global headquarters
Nike global headquarters

Hurley was founded in 1999 by Californian Bob Hurley, who stepped down as chief executive in 2015.

"We appreciate how Bob and the Hurley team have built Hurley into the world's most innovative surf brand," said Michael Spillane, president of categories and product, Nike, Inc.

"As we drive increasingly more targeted investment and focused growth through Nike's Consumer Direct Offense, this change in ownership will allow sharper focus and intentional investment in Hurley's growth potential."

Bluestar Alliance, founded in 2006 by Joseph Gabbay and Ralph Gindi, owns, manages, and markets a portfolio of consumer brands including Bebe, Tahari, Kensie, Limited Too, Brookstone, Nanette Lepore, Catherine Malandrino, Joan Vass and English Laundry.

“We have always admired the Hurley brand as it has maintained its leadership role and premium positioning in the surf world,” stated Joey Gabbay, CEO of Bluestar Alliance.

“This is a transformative acquisition for Bluestar as Hurley’s international footprint will enhance Bluestar’s reach around the world. We look forward to building upon the existing Hurley network and expanding to additional countries with the deep relationships that already exist within the Bluestar portfolio of brands. We see Hurley continuing to evolve into a 360-degree lifestyle brand, with action sports playing a key role.”

The transaction is expected to be completed in December.

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