Perry Ellis venture in China with Manhattan

Miami based Perry Ellis International, announced that it

has entered into a joint venture with China Outfitters Holdings to develop the Manhattan brand in the People's Republic of China, Hong Kong and Macau.

Manhattan is a 150 years old brand of the original Manhattan Shirt Company. George Feldenkreis, Chairman and CEO, Perry Ellis International, commented, "This agreement and expansion into Greater China marks a major milestone for Perry Ellis International and we could not have picked a stronger partner than China Outfitters to develop the Manhattan brand. They have a demonstrated ability to build brands and an extremely strong financial position."

China Outfitters Holdings expects to begin distribution of the Manhattan men's product for fall/winter 2012 throughout the People's Republic of China. More specifically, the company will initially focus its store opening efforts within Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu. At least one store opening is expected by December 2012. The brand currently has a presence throughout Vietnam and Taiwan through existing license agreements.

Currently, China Outfitters Holdings, based in Hong Kong, has 475 self-operated retail points and 627 third-party operated retail points under multiple brands, including Doright, Hallmark, Jeep, Koyo Jeans, London Fog, Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club and Sideout.

Perry Ellis International is a leading designer, distributor and licensor of a broad line of high quality men's and women's apparel, accessories and fragrances, as well as select children's apparel. The company, through its wholly owned subsidiaries, owns a portfolio of nationally and internationally recognized brands, including Perry Ellis, Original Penguin by Munsingwear, Jantzen, Laundry by Shelli Segal, C&C California, Rafaella, Ben Hogan, Grand Slam, Savane, Axist, Manhattan.