Jimmy Choo, InterParfums Make Money, Marketing Moves

Private equity house TowerBrook Capital Partners, a major shareholder of London-based fashion house Jimmy Choo, revealed that the luxury accessories company has enlisted Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley “to consider long-term strategic alternatives.” Some media outlets have reported that the high-end company known for its stilettos might go public but there is no official word.

In a statement, TowerBrook Co-CEO Ramez Sousou said: “We are now initiating a review of the best strategic and financing options for the business to support its long term development and continued success. We are proud to be associated with this brand and team and remain highly committed shareholders.”

Meanwhile, in a separate release, the accessories company agreed to have some products marketed by Clarins Fragrance Group and Inter Parfums subsidiary InterParfums Luxury Brands, starting January 1, 2011. InterParfums Luxury and Clarins will also handle marketing for Burberry fragrances and makeup, Lanvin, Montblanc and Jimmy Choo brands in the United States. Until the end of 2010, Inter Parfums and P&G Prestige handle such services for Burberry and Lanvin scents.

InterParfums Luxury Brands and Clarins Fragrance Group US, a unit of Clarins Group in the U.S. that handles Thierry Mugler, Azzaro, Porsche Design, David Yurman and Swarovski brands, will share and manage a bigger sales team, with logistical and administrative support handled by Clarins Group USA.

InterParfums, which also makes personal care items for GAP, announced earlier this summer plans to work with Nine West and fashion designer Betsey Johnson on each of their maiden fragrances. Nine West, which is owned by Jones Apparel Group, will see its first fragrance for women debut in fall 2010. Johnson’s first fragrance was released last month and a set of other scents are due in 2011.

In a statement, Johnson said: “I am so excited about making happy “trails” with Inter Parfums!  They get my vibe. Love my scent and bottle ideas; I’m going for a come hither scent.” Johnson’s deal will include sales of fragrances, color cosmetics and
“other personal care products” in her stores, on a new website and via other distribution channels.