Bedat & Co Sold By Gucci Group To LuxuryConcepts

On February 25, Gucci Group signed an agreement with Malaysia-based management firm LuxuryConcepts Watches and Jewellery, selling it the Bedat & Co watch brand.  Gucci Group originally acquired Bedat & Co from founders Christian and Simone Bedat in 2000.  Going forward, Bedat & Co will continue the design, marketing, and sale of watches under the Bedat & Co name.  Current brand CEO Viviane Fankhauser will continue to serve in her role of executive leadership.

"Together with LuxuryConcepts and Vivian Fankhauser we have reached a good deal for all parties concerned," Gucci Group President and CEO Robert Polet said in a company media release. "Since its acquisition, Bedat and Co developed particularly in the United States and Asia, however, it didn't reach the level of performance we were expecting.  Joining LuxuryConcept with its expertise in distributing niche high-end watches in Asia, Bedat and Co is set to become a strong player in their markets."

Established in 2005, LuxuryConcepts focuses its business on the introduction and management of niche watch and jewelry brands within the East Asian market.  Other luxury timepiece brands represented by LuxuryConcepts include Romain Jerome, Franc Vila, Hysek, and Armand Nicolet.

Regarding the agreement, LuxuryConcepts CEO Frank Low stated, "I am excited at the opportunities that lie ahead for Bedat and Co and am delighted that we will be able to build upon the legacy that has been created at the brand and to develop its potential further."