Footwear retailer KNS International has acquired women’s footwear brand Birdies for an undisclosed amount, according to a statement released on 10 March.
Birdies is a luxury footwear brand founded by Bianca Gates and Marisa Sharkey in 2015 which operates as a direct-to-consumer business.
KNS is an online and drop-ship footwear retailer that operates in North America with products at select US retailers. The ecommerce retailer is backed by Centre Partners, a private equity firm.
As a part of the deal, Birdies co-founder Bianca Gates will step into the role of brand president at KNS.
Greg Tunney, CEO of KNS, said: “I have long admired the Birdies brand and the creative vision that founders Bianca Gates and Marisa Sharkey brought to life.”
“Birdies will be a flagship brand within the KNS portfolio, bringing a combination of fashion and comfort for its expanding base of consumers.
“Their direct-to-consumer approach has resonated with women across the globe, enabling the brand to punch above its weight in the footwear category.”
Birdies will join KNS’ portfolio, which includes Journee, Taft, and Vance.
Bianca Gates, co-founder of Birdies, added: “This partnership marks an exciting new chapter, enabling us to scale our mission of delivering both comfort and style in a way that resonates with our loyal customers.”
“With KNS’ extensive expertise and resources, Birdies will quickly have the opportunity to expand our reach while staying true to the products and community that define Birdies.
This partnership allows Birdies to expand its reach, previously only operating as a primarily DTC brand with additional distribution through marketplace and wholesale partnerships.
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