UK-based affordable-luxury fashion-brand LK Bennett has been sold to its Chinese franchise partner Rebecca Feng.
Rebecca Feng, who operates the label’s business in China under a franchise agreement, competed with several interested buyers following the fashion retailer’s entry into administration last month, including founder Linda Bennett.
The purchase reportedly places stores in Britain and Ireland in some danger of closure, which could affect up to 500 staff. It will also involve a review of the firm’s operations in Europe and the US, which filed bankruptcy proceedings earlier this month. The firm has some 200 locations globally.
The brand was founded by Bennett in 1990 with the vision of bringing “a bit of Bond Street luxury to the High Street”. Initially known for its signature ‘kitten heels’ favoured by celebrities, the label grew to become a destination for feminine footwear. Ready-to-wear collections were introduced in 1998 establishing LK Bennett as a fashion house offering complete wardrobe solutions for all occasions.
All of the label’s collections are designed in house with a theme that combines signature detailing with strong colours, distinctive prints and a flattering fit.