Kurt Geiger inks deal with Nine West

Europe -- Nine West Footwear Corporation, a division of Jones Apparel Group Inc announced that it has signed an agreement with Kurt Geiger Ltd., Europe's largest luxury footwear retailer, to license and distribute the Nine West and Easy Spirit brands in the United Kingdom and Ireland.

Under the terms of the agreement, Kurt Geiger will offer women's footwear, handbags and small leather goods beginning with the spring 2010 product lines. Kurt Geiger will distribute the products through department stores and also intends to open freestanding Nine West stores in the UK and Ireland, including flagship locations. The initial term of the agreement is for seven years and includes an option for renewal. Additional terms were not disclosed.

"We are thrilled to partner with Kurt Geiger and to bring the Nine West and Easy Spirit brands to a broader base of consumers in the UK and Ireland," said Andrew Cohen, Nine West Footwear Corporation's Chief Executive Officer. "This agreement marks another positive step in our international licensing program.

With Kurt Geiger's proven track record of execution and brand management expertise, Nine West and Easy Spirit will have increased exposure in these key European markets, with significant long-term potential to further develop these brands in currently untapped markets."

Neil Clifford, Kurt Geiger's Chief Executive Officer, said, "This is an exciting opportunity for the growth of Kurt Geiger and we are delighted to be welcoming Nine West and Easy Spirit to our portfolio. We believe that our expertise in luxury brand management paired with our unrivalled retail network within the UK and Europe will further enhance the reach of these global brands within our marketplace."

This agreement replaces a previous license and distribution agreement in the United Kingdom and Ireland that was terminated by Nine West Footwear Corporation earlier this year.

Since its founding over 30 years ago, Nine West has evolved from an American shoe label to a leading global brand that encompasses not only footwear but accessories, sportswear, denim and more. Today, Nine West is known for offering consumers high quality, trend-right products.

Easy Spirit combines a "live life to the fullest" mantra and delivers footwear with advanced comfort technology, updated classic styling and beautiful materials that are perfect for work, weekend or workout.
 
Jones Apparel Group Inc