Panama Jack Strengthens Product Offerings in Its Core Market; Expands Presence in Europe, Asia, Caribbean, and Central and South America

ORLANDO, Fla., Feb. 15, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Panama Jack, the brand that defined beach living for generations of consumers, recently added four new branded product offerings in its core market. The company entered licensing agreements with menswear manufacturer Hampshire Group, sunglass maker FGX International, sports-equipment manufacturer Switchboard, Inc., and beach-accessory supplier JGR Copa, LLC.  The company also extended its reach into Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Collectively, the new product offerings provide consumers with more ways to experience the Panama Jack lifestyle where they live, play and work.

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"Panama Jack is as much an attitude toward life, living and what's important to us as it about actual products," said Panama Jack President Kim Manna.  "Our brand connects with people because it's real, it's comfortable and it's affordable.  Our new products will provide consumers with even more freedom to enjoy what's most meaningful to them."      

The agreements will generate Panama Jack products ranging from cargo shorts to skateboards:   

• Hampshire Group is producing a new line of lifestyle clothing for men.  The collection will feature outerwear, pants and shorts, button-down shirts and t-shirts, and swimwear.  The new line will include separates as well as coordinated items such as shirts and shorts.
• FGX International is the U.S. subsidiary of French eyewear company Essilor. The company is developing a line of sunglasses, sunglass readers, and eyeglass cords and cases for Panama Jack.  Sunglasses have been a mainstay of Panama Jack's product offerings for many years.
• Switchboard, Inc. manufactures and distributes some of the top brands in skateboarding.  The California-based company is designing an exclusive line of skateboards for Panama Jack that captures the brand's fun, adventurous spirit. Skateboards are Panama Jack's first action-sports offering. 
• JGR Copa, LLC produces sports and recreational goods and equipment.  The company is providing lightweight aluminum beach chairs and umbrellas for the brand, and designing a colorful collection of beach towels.    

"We are excited to be partnering with Panama Jack to help bring the lifestyle of the tropics to consumers everywhere," said Heath Golden, CEO of the Hampshire Group.  "Embodying the spirit of travel, adventure and a relaxed island lifestyle, the collection has received great reception from retailers and we look forward to continuing to build on the legacy of this renowned brand."

Panama Jack also is expanding its global reach to better promote its brand overseas.   The company recently hired international licensing agent Exim Licensing USA, Inc. to represent the company in the Caribbean, Central America and South America, and Bradford Licensing, LLS to promote the brand in Europe, Asia and India.  Both agents will promote the brand in its core apparel-and-accessories market.  Panama Jack previously marketed itself solely in the United States.

"Panama Jack's attributes of fun, adventure and relaxation have everything to do with the Latin American culture,' said Judith Hofman, Exim's vice president of Licensing.  "We have no doubt that Panama Jack, a solid company with almost 40 years in the market, will become one of the top lifestyle properties in the entire LATAM region and be very successful in the coming years."

Panama Jack has been expanding in multiple markets over the last two years.  The company announced five new licensing agreements in home furnishings and decor earlier this month.  It made its debut in the furniture market last year, introducing three new collections of stylish, affordable indoor and outdoor furniture. 

About Panama Jack:
Panama Jack is an international company that has built a powerful brand and loyal following with product offerings synonymous with a carefree beach lifestyle.  Its offerings include suncare products, sunglasses, beach apparel, sandals and shoes, hats, jewelry, beach chairs and umbrellas, and rum. Panama Jack added home furnishings to its product offerings in 2011, introducing its Home Collection and Outdoor Collection that allow people to live the Panama Jack lifestyle at home.  The company launched branded luggage and beach-cruiser bicycles in 2010, as well as opening the first of several Panama Jack retail stores at top travel destinations.  Founded in 1974, Panama Jack is based in Orlando, FL.  

Contact:
Lynn Martenstein
(305) 490-6984
[email protected]

SOURCE Panama Jack