Wilsons Leather expansion could include acquisition of an established brand

By Lisa Kerner

Charlotte, N.C., Aug. 9 - Wilsons The Leather Experts Inc. retained strategic advisors Financo, Inc., an investment banking firm; Telsey Advisory Group, an independent research and consulting firm; and IDEO, a design and innovation firm.

The companies will assist Wilsons Leather as it moves forward with a business strategy that includes expanding its accessories business, including accessories-only stores and the possible acquisition of an established accessories brand.

In addition, the company's board appointed Michael T. Sweeney, managing partner of Goldner Hawn Private Equity, to the position of non-executive chairman of the board. Mike Searles will continue in his role as chief executive officer.

"Goldner Hawn invested in Wilsons Leather because we are excited about the company's prospects, particularly with regard to our future in the women's accessories business," Sweeney said in a Wilsons Leather news release.

"We believe that the company's 411 stores across the United States uniquely position us for success. As chairman, I look forward to working directly with the company's leadership team in solidifying and implementing our strategy."

Wilsons Leather is a specialty retailer of leather outerwear, accessories and apparel based in Minneapolis.

© 2015 Prospect News.
All content on this website is protected by copyright law in the U.S. and elsewhere. For the use of the person downloading only.
Redistribution and copying are prohibited by law without written permission in advance from Prospect News.
Redistribution or copying includes e-mailing, printing multiple copies or any other form of reproduction.