Through a strategic licensing agreement, BRSP takes over the operations of more than 200 of the brands’ retail stores and e-commerce across the regions
Authentic Brands Group has announced a long-term partnership with BR South Pacific (BRSP) to transition the licenses of its iconic action and outdoor sports brands across Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific region. This move secures the future of more than 200 branded retail stores, wholesale and e-commerce platforms, safeguarding retail presence, supporting local jobs, and ensuring continued access to the brands for communities across these markets. The partnership paves the way for long-term growth and ongoing success for Quiksilver, Billabong, Roxy, RVCA, DC Shoes, Element, VonZipper, Spyder and Volcom.
As part of this transaction, an affiliate of Liberated Brands, the brands’ former licensee in the region, has been acquired and is now part of the Caprice Australia group of companies. The newly formed division operating under Caprice is named BR South Pacific (BRSP), marking a new era of locally driven leadership and renewed focus on brand innovation.
“We are thrilled to announce the acquisition of these world-renowned brand operations and licensing partnership with Authentic,” said Paul Cannon CEO of BRSP. “With a shared vision of enhancing the experience for consumers, both online and in-store, we look forward to introducing seamless shopping experiences, curated collections and unique activations that resonate with a dedicated and growing audience.”
Cannon continues, “We are incredibly proud to bring these businesses back to an Australian-owned brand operator. We are looking forward to working with the talented Australian teams that will continue to operate the business moving forward. These brands have a profound impact on shaping surf culture worldwide, and we are committed to honouring that legacy whilst evolving to inspire and connect with next generation.”
Consumers can expect to see a renewed focus on sustainability and authenticity with plans to reinvigorate product lines and expand into new markets while staying true to the brands’ values.
BRSP’s expertise in transforming licensed brands into full lifestyle experiences, combined with Authentic’s industry-leading brand development capabilities, will infuse the portfolio with new energy and unlock fresh growth opportunities.
David Brooks, EVP of Action and Outdoor Sports, Lifestyle at Authentic said, “We’ve worked closely with Caprice Australia to put the right partnership in place. Their understanding of the market, combined with the experience of the existing management team, puts us in a strong position to grow these brands. Quiksilver and Billabong were born in Australia, and this region remains central to their identity. BRSP is the right team to help carry that legacy forward.”
“This partnership marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for our brands in the region,” said Wesley Chu, President of Asia Pacific at Authentic. “Caprice joins Authentic’s global network as a pinnacle partner, bringing exceptional leadership in sourcing, brand management, and market execution. With Authentic’s expertise in brand-building and BRSP’s deep local insight, we are confident that this partnership will strengthen the brands’ presence and deliver enhanced consumer experiences across Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific region.”
This article originally appeared in Edition 15 of The Toy Universe Magazine
