NATIONAL: Casualwear brand Geox is set to launch up to 30 concept stores across Australia.
Melbourne retailer Peter Sheppard Footwear has secured distribution rights for the Italian brand currently named sold in 68 countries.
In a deal worth more than $23 million, the partnership will see seven stores rolled out across Sydney and Melbourne by next year with a further 23 expected to open nationally by 2012.
Founded in 1995 by Mario Moretti Polegato, Geox's point of difference lies in its unique design which utilises breathable membrane helping to solve the problem of human perspiration.
Peter Sheppard Footwear executive buyer Melanie Sheppard said there was strong synergy netween the two companies with both being family owned and operated.
She said her company intended rolling out the concept stores in conjunction with Westfield in suburban stores in an attempt to reach a larger market.
"The stores will also showcase the unique range of Geox upperwear apparel such as coats and jackets that utilise the same revolutionary membrane technology."
The first store to roll out will be in Miranda in New South Wales around March, followed by Burwood in June, Doncaster and Parramatta in September, Southland in March 2009 and Bondi towards the end of 2009.