Perry Ellis wins Dockers men's license

Perry Ellis International Inc has reached an agreement with Levi Strauss & Co for the license to manufacture and distribute Dockers men's outerwear in the US and Mexico. The range includes men's jackets, coats and synthetic fleeces, which Perry Ellis will deliver to specialty stores and select chains by June 2006. Perry Ellis does not expect the agreement to have any impact on fiscal 2007 earnings, but will impact earnings in subsequent years. The license will be valid through to December 2009, with a possible renewal period until December 2012.

"We are excited about this platform to grow the outerwear business for one of the best names in fashion and we are proud of our association with Levi Strauss & Company. Dockers is a great world class brand that represents the American lifestyle," said Perry Ellis International Chairman and CEO, George Feldenkreis. "We plan to take advantage of synergies in production cycles and other functions with our swimwear business, as the swimwear buyers often make purchases of both categories."

Perry Ellis International President and COO, Oscar Feldenkreis, said, "We plan to operate this group as a separate business unit with an experienced group of designers in Seattle, who fully understand the outerwear category and were able to build a great outerwear company. We will leverage our core competencies in sourcing, planning and sales management to maximize this opportunity."