Authentic Brands Group signs Aldo licensing agreement for Ted Baker

Authentic Brands Group has signed a long-term licensing agreement with Aldo Group for the design, production and distribution of Ted Baker footwear and handbags.

Through the agreement, Aldo will become the strategic partner for Ted Baker footwear and handbags at wholesale in the US and Canada.

The deal will also cover the design, production and distribution of Ted Baker footwear through the brand's direct-to-consumer channels, including its website and stores worldwide.

Starting with the Spring 2024 collection, Aldo will work closely with the London-based Ted Baker global design team to develop premium footwear and handbag collections that "preserve the brand’s unique design ethos".

Jarrod Weber, Chief Brand Officer at Authentic, said: “We have chosen Aldo Group for this distinctive British lifestyle brand because of its dedication and commitment.

"It brings unmatched expertise in footwear and handbags, and we are confident that through this partnership, Ted Baker will continue to deliver the expert design and high-quality products for which the brand is known and loved.”

The Aldo Group was founded in 1972 and has more than 1,500 points of sale in over 100 countries worldwide. Leveraging Authentic’s brand development platform, Aldo will work closely with the company to "strategically engage" with Ted Baker’s global audience.

Jonathan Frankel, President at Aldo and Product Services at the Aldo Group, said: “We are excited to partner with Authentic, the leading global brand-builder and brand powerhouse.

"This relationship will unlock the full potential of the Ted Baker brand in the footwear and handbags categories. Ted Baker is a significant partnership for us and as we start our journey together, we plan on drawing from the brand’s vibrant DNA, combining fresh and innovative concepts, to bring the brand to the forefront of the market.”

Authentic Brands Group completed its acquisition of Ted Baker in October 2022, with plans to leverage the brand's global network of category experts and established operating partners to convert the Ted Baker business into a licensed business model. PDS Group recently acquired Ted Baker Design Group as part of a strategic partnership with ABG. PDS Ltd, the global supply chain platform, yesterday announced its acquisition of brand management and licensing business The Radius Group to create PDS Radius Brands.