The Early Years of Cole Haan
Cole Haan’s humble beginnings date back to the 1920s, when the company was founded by two brothers, William and Charles Haan. Initially, the company focused on producing high-quality brown shoes, which quickly gained popularity among the American public.
The new management team, which included Cole and Haan, aimed to expand the company’s operations and increase its market share. They achieved this by acquiring several other companies, including the well-known shoe manufacturer, Allen & Ginter.
Acquiring Allen & Ginter
The acquisition of Allen & Ginter marked a significant turning point for M. Selz & Co. The company had been struggling to compete with larger, more established players in the industry. By acquiring Allen & Ginter, M.
The acquisition was a strategic move by Nike to expand its presence in the premium shoe market.
The Acquisition and Expansion
Nike’s acquisition of Cole Haan marked a significant milestone in the company’s history. The deal not only expanded Nike’s product offerings but also provided a platform for the brand to tap into the premium shoe market. At the time, Cole Haan was known for its high-quality, stylish, and comfortable shoes that catered to the needs of professionals and fashion-conscious consumers.
Benefits of the Acquisition
The acquisition of Cole Haan brought several benefits to Nike. Some of the key advantages include:
The company needed a change.
The Struggle to Revamp a Legacy Brand
Nike, one of the world’s most recognizable brands, was facing a crisis in the late-1990s. Sales were declining, and the brand’s image was becoming stale. The company’s leadership knew they needed to make a change, but they were unsure where to start. This was a turning point for Nike, and it would require a significant overhaul of the brand’s identity and operations.
The Role of Innovation
Innovation played a crucial role in Nike’s revitalization efforts.
Rubel had previously worked with Nike and Cole Haan.
The Rise of Cole Haan
Cole Haan was founded in 1928 by William J. Haan. The company started as a small leather goods manufacturer in New York City. Over the years, Cole Haan expanded its product line to include shoes, handbags, and accessories. Key milestones in Cole Haan’s history:
- 1928: Founded by William J. Haan
- 1950s: Introduced the first Cole Haan shoe
- 1970s: Expanded product line to include handbags and accessories
- 2000s: Acquired by the private equity firm, Apax Partners
- Co-branded products
- Exclusive designs
- High-quality materials
- Wide range of styles
- Lightweight and breathable materials
- Cushioning and arch support for comfort
- Sleek and modern designs
- Affordable price point
The Partnership with Nike
In 2006, Cole Haan partnered with Nike to create a new line of shoes. The partnership aimed to bring Cole Haan’s high-quality, comfortable shoes to a wider audience. The collaboration resulted in the launch of several successful shoe lines, including the popular Cole Haan Nike Air Zoom Pegasus. Key features of the Cole Haan Nike partnership:
The Departure of Nike
In 2012, Nike and Cole Haan parted ways. The Swoosh sold off two of its non-core brands to Apax Partners.
The Rise of Cole Haan
Cole Haan, a renowned American luxury footwear and apparel brand, has experienced remarkable growth and expansion over the years. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a global brand, Cole Haan has consistently demonstrated its commitment to quality, style, and customer satisfaction.
Early Years and Expansion
Cole Haan was founded in 1928 by William J. Press.
The Rise of GrandPrø
The GrandPrø series, launched in 2020, was a strategic move by Cole Haan to tap into the growing demand for comfortable, high-quality, and stylish footwear. The brand’s decision to create a line dedicated to Maria Sharapova, a professional tennis player and long-time brand ambassador, was a calculated risk that paid off.
Key Features of GrandPrø
The GrandPrø series has been a game-changer for Cole Haan, offering a unique blend of style, comfort, and value that has resonated with customers.
