Marimekko licensing its patterns to H&M

Finnish fashion house Marimekko and Swedish clothing retailer Hennes & Mauritz (H&M) have signed a licence agreement whereby Marimekko will licence some of its popular fabric designs to H&M’s summer collection 2008, the two companies announced on Tuesday.
      H&M’s designers have created an attractive collection of clothes and accessories for women, men, and children with Marimekko’s popular prints from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s.
     
The collection of some 50 products will be sold in H&M’s stores in 28 countries from April 2008.
      "I believe that our cooperation will enhance Marimekko's international recognition among young and fashion-conscious consumers", said Kirsti Paakkanen, the President and CEO of Marimekko, in her statement on Tuesday.
     
Marimekko is a leading Finnish textile and clothing design company that was established in 1951. The company designs, manufactures and markets high-quality clothing, interior decoration textiles, bags, and other accessories under the Marimekko brand, both in Finland and abroad.
      Three weeks ago, Kirsti Paakkanen announced that she is to step down as CEO and to sell most of her shares to Mika Ihamuotila, who has been elected the new President and CEO of Marimekko as of February 1st, 2008.
      Hennes & Mauritz is a Swedish clothing retailer which was established in 1947. The company's business concept is to offer up-to-date fashion and quality at the best price.
      H&M has around 1,500 stores in 28 countries.


Previously in HS International Edition:
  Kirsti Paakkanen to surrender ownership of Marimekko (31.10.2007)
  Banker confronts challenge of poppy patterns (13.11.2007)

Links:
  Marimekko press release 20.11.2007: Marimekko is licencing its patterns to H&M summer 2008 collection
  H&M press release 20.11.2007: Magnificent Marimekko patterns at H&M this spring