NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Time Inc.’s (NYSE:TIME) Sports Illustrated Swimsuit has teamed up with RAJ Swim to create exclusive new collections of swim and active apparel, it was announced today. The strategic agreement—the first global apparel license for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit—will see two of the leading brands in their industries join forces to introduce unprecedented collections catering to all types of women.
“This is a natural evolution for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, which has long been considered the authority on swim style,” said Bruce Gersh, SVP, Strategy and Business Development, Time Inc. “The opportunity to expand the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit brand into the premium apparel space is a perfect fit, and it falls in line with our strategy to unlock new consumer programs leveraging Time Inc. brands. RAJ Swim has a rich history and is highly respected in the industry, making the company an ideal fit to help bring the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit brand to life.”
A first look at the upcoming Sports Illustrated Swimsuit collections and more details will be announced this summer. The first swim and active lines from the two companies will be available for consumers to purchase in early 2018 in conjunction with the launch of the annual Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. Select items will be featured in the iconic issue and on SI’s digital properties, including an e-commerce integration on SI.com, where consumers can seamlessly purchase their favorite pieces online.
“We are focused on long-term, highly sought-after global brands, and Sports Illustrated Swimsuit has endless opportunities for growth,” states Brenda West, President of RAJ Swim. “We see the future of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, swim and active collections as a strong complement to our business. The brand has instant recognition for consumers around the world. The swim and active ecosystems are evolving, and this collaboration sets the stage for infinite possibilities.”
The multiyear agreement will see the two companies collaborate on a range of collections designed to reach all generations, body types and personalities for a new era of swim and active lifestyles. The alliance will build on Sports Illustrated Swimsuit’s unrivaled reputation for identifying the latest trends, curating the best of the best and celebrating every body shape. Check back on Sports Illustrated Swimsuit’s Swim Daily site and follow @SI_Swimsuit and RAJ Swim for the latest news and updates about upcoming launches.
ABOUT SPORTS ILLUSTRATED SWIMSUIT
Sports Illustrated Swimsuit (www.si.com/swimsuit) reaches more than 70 million US adults annually and more men ages 18 to 34 than the Super Bowl. The iconic brand spans 20 product extensions, along with a vibrant experiential marketing business. Since debuting in 1964, Swimsuit has become a pop culture phenomenon and a revered launching pad for successful careers in TV, fashion, business and film. The fashion industry describes SI Swimsuit as the "Oscars of Swimwear," as an appearance in the issue is a crowning achievement for swimsuit and accessory manufacturers.
ABOUT RAJ SWIM
RAJ Swim (www.rajswim.com) is the leading swimwear design house with globally recognized brands. Founded in 1967, it is one of few vertical manufacturers in the U.S. that designs, manufactures, and markets designer and private label swimwear and cover-ups. RAJ Swim brands are known for their innovative designs, luxurious fabrications, and impeccable quality. The portfolio of collections caters to every woman and includes; Athena, NEXT, LUXE by Lisa Vogel, VYB, Ella Moss, Basta, Splendid, Reef, Sports Illustrated Swim and Active. In 2009, RAJ Swim launched SwimSpot.com and currently owns and operates eight SwimSpot stores. SwimSpot is the quick, easy, and fun shopping destination for the modern sun lover.
