Rockpool invests in British bag brand Knomo

Knomo, known for its wearable tech bags, has secured 3 million pounds in funding from private equity firm Rockpool after securing deals with US retailers.

The British bag brand is expecting that the investment along with new deals signed with Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue and Anthropologie will boost its international business, with US sales predicted to rise by more than 45 percent in the next six months.

In the UK, the premium accessories brand sells in John Lewis, Harrods, and will be headlining Selfridges new technology department. In addition, Knomo is set to launch its first standalone store in London Covent Garden, catering to “digital nomads” with a community working space for people who do their jobs on the move.

Knomo chief executive officer and co-founder Howard Harrison said: “Knomo's customers are digital nomads working all around the world, so it's natural for us to take another step towards becoming a truly global brand. Our mission is to empower everyone to follow their passion and work free, so we’ve created this ecosystem that makes managing life and work easy, wherever you are.”

To aid its expansion, the company has recently strengthened its senior management team with the appointment of Fred Edwards as chief operating officer, formerly of Hummus Bros and OneCall24, and Simon Wilkinson as digital director, who has joined from Dr Martens and Charles Tyrwhitt. Their aim is to focus on the customer experience and build e-commerce for the brand.

Rockpool investment director Tommy O’Sullivan, added: “Living and working on the move is becoming a mainstream lifestyle choice, the loyal customer community and innovative approach to design ideally equips the team to develop Knomo into a truly global brand.”

Image: Knomo