The fashion company Esprit is insolvent and on the brink of collapse. The brand, however, could continue to exist – in Deichmann’s range. A company spokesperson has now confirmed to the Reuters news agency that Deichmann is interested in the brand. Esprit shoes are an “excellent” fit into the Essen-based shoe retailer’s range.
Esprit shoes have been part of Deichmann’s range for several years now. In 2019, a licensing agreement was signed between the fashion company and the chain store. Since Spring/Summer 2020, Deichmann has been offering specially developed models from Esprit in its stores. These differed from the wholesale collections that Esprit continued to bring to market.
Insolvency proceedings were opened against Esprit with effect from August 1st. In addition to Esprit Europe GmbH, six other German group companies of the company are also affected. These include: Esprit Retail BV & Co. KG, Esprit Europe Services GmbH, Esprit Design & Product Developement GmbH, Esprit Wholesale GmbH, Esprit Global Image GmbH and Esprit Card Service GmbH.
The online medium “Business Insider” recently reported that Deichmann was negotiating the trademark rights of Esprit. According to the report, a planned deal with the British investor Alteri is not progressing as planned; the purchase agreement has not yet been signed.
