Laura Ashley Lauds Josmo as a Top Licensee

Children’s footwear importer Josmo Shoes of West New York, N.J., was recognized at Laura Ashley Inc.’s recent annual meeting as a top sales performer for the brand in 2008. “For the second year in a row, Josmo Shoes has exceeded expectations by increasing sales among independent retailers,” a Laura Ashley Inc. spokesperson said. “Adding new stores and extending the Laura Ashley collection, Josmo outperformed [its] budget by 507 percent. Their commitment to the brand along with a fashionable selection of quality products has given Josmo a winning recipe for success.”

The licensed line started with a basic line of six SKUs but has since grown into a complete line spanning girls’ sandals, boots, and school and dress shoes. “The brand has allowed us to break into a more upscale, brand-conscious market with stores that have a client base who look for a name they can trust,” Josmo principal Sam Esquenazi said.

Josmo is targeting the line at boutiques, higher-end department stores and larger online retailers. “We feel that this is a name with staying power that’s already known in the market,” Esquenazi added. “Our product adds the brand factor without the break-the-bank prices. Parents can still feel comfortable purchasing a brand they trust without paying through the nose for it.” Visit www.josmo.com.

In This Issue: Global influences drive European fashion for fall Manufacturers build in special features to boost sell through Russian themes color specialty fashion this season Plus: Little Steps Fall ’09—fall shoe trends, emerging categories and a Q&A with BBC’s Bob Campbell Coming Next Month: Eco battles the economy—which categories will fare best Earnshaw’s investigates the T-shirt market Lifestyle brands rule the fashion pages Plus: The best new baby shower gifts under $50