Wolverine Worldwide announced Wednesday that the company will enter into a multi-year global licensing agreement of the Stride Rite brand with Vida Shoes International, as well as the creation of the Wolverine Children’s Group.
Through the agreement, Vida Shoes International will become the worldwide Stride Rite brand licensee for footwear and other items subject to current licenses. Vida Shoes will design, develop and market children’s products under the Stride Rite brand.
Vida Shoes designs, produces and manages the marketing of more than 15 brands across the adult and children’s footwear markets.
“Stride Rite is an iconic, premium children’s footwear brand and this global partnership is the next stage in Stride Rite’s nearly century-long history, said Wolverine Chairman and CEO Blake Krueger. “Vida Shoes International shares our mission to design products that kids love, while offering parents fashionable and functional options for their children. We’re confident they will be a great partner for Wolverine Worldwide and our Stride Rite brand.”
The company is also launching the Wolverine Children’s Group aimed to grow and develop the children’s category for the company’s portfolio of brands like Sperry, Hush Puppies and Keds. The new group is part of Wolverine Worldwide’s Way Forward strategic plan aimed to at enhancing product and financial performance.
Bornie Del Priore will serve as the vice president and general manager of the Wolverine Children’s Group. Priore comes to Wolverine Worldwide after serving in senior leadership roles with Tommy Bahama Footwear and Tommy Hilfiger USA.