Authentic Brands Group Secures the Future of Rockport Footwear

By Allison Watkinson
TLL Reporter
Authentic Brands Group has acquired Rockport footwear following an approved sales transaction by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the district of Delaware.
Authentic is a global brand development, marketing and entertainment platform that currently owns more than 40 lifestyle, entertainment and media brands.
Authentic works to connect brands with its global network of operators, distributors, licensing partners and retailers to build long-term value in the marketplace.
The addition of Rockport to Authentic’s portfolio is intended to expand the company’s reach in the global lifestyle and footwear retail markets.
“Rockport’s core consumer is more active than ever,” said Authentic Brands CEO, Jamie Salter. “The brand’s offering is a perfect addition to our portfolio with opportunities for category expansion into apparel, accessories, outerwear, travel and more. There is a significant addressable market, presenting opportunities for the brand to evolve into a full lifestyle offering with a focus on innovation and comfort.”
Initially founded in 1971, the Rockport brand specializes in high-quality footwear products such as dress shoes, sneakers, sandals, high heels, hiking boots, and more. The company is best-known for its comfortable athletic soles and its leather shoe designs.
To support the acquisition, Authentic has signed a long-term licensing agreement with its long-standing partner, Marc Fisher Footwear, that appoints the company as Rockport’s core U.S. partner for footwear product design, wholesale distribution, and ecommerce operations.
“We are excited to partner with Authentic on Rockport, a brand with great consumer equity,” said Marc Fisher Footwear CEO, Marc Fisher. “Rockport’s strong connection to its core consumer presents compelling growth opportunities within the men’s footwear market, and we look forward to continuing to build upon its foundation with Authentic.”
Authentic is expected to announce additional licensing partners for the Rockport brand across multiple different categories and territories in the coming months.