Figo Co., Ltd. (headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo), which distributes Felisi in Japan, has acquired exclusive import and sales rights for the Italian total fashion brand ASPESI in Japan. Sales will begin in the Spring/Summer 2014 season.
Figo President and CEO Naoki Akama commented on the reason for the acquisition, saying, "We have long been seeking a brand that will allow us to become a stable company with two or three pillars, rather than relying solely on the Felisi brand. We will continue to consider acquiring third and fourth new brands. While maintaining the traditional mindset of our parent company, United Arrows, we hope to convey the value of timeless items that will be loved for generations."
In the fiscal year ending March 2013, the company recorded sales of 2.9 billion yen, a 115% increase over the previous year, and saw an increase in both sales and profits. This increase was due to stable delivery times and strong performance in wholesale and direct retail sales. Akama was appointed president in April of this year, replacing director, and a new structure was established. Aspesi was founded in 1969 by Alberto Aspesi as a shirt manufacturer in the suburbs of Milan. They offer both men's and women's items. In addition to their own stores in cities across Italy and Madrid, Spain, they also distribute to select shops around the world. The M65 is their signature item.