"Le Tigre has been a loved American apparel brand since 1977. Its unique style is the perfect addition to our growing portfolio of Owned Brands that customers have come to expect. We are excited to have yet another way to inspire self-expression", commented Bill Jordan, Designer Brands president.

Designer Brands noted that its addition, along with the recently announced partnership with Reebok, will enable the company to "grow owned brand dominance in the increasingly important athletic footwear". Le Tigre joins then a portfolio which includes Vince Camuto, Reebok, Hush Puppies, Jessica Simpson, Crown Vintage, JLO Jenifer Lopez, Mix No. 6, Lucky Brand and Kelly & Katie. Though the relationship with these brands has many forms - ownership, licensing, partnerships, and customized agreements -, all of which ensure access, enhanced margins, and collaborative working relationships.

Le Tigre brand has been owned and managed by joint venture investment partners and brand licensing experts, Infinity Brands and Hilco Inc., which operate Le Tigre 360 Global, since 2017. "As a leader in footwear, they will undoubtedly bring inspiring and unique designs to the marketplace, producing and delivering the highest quality products and engaging a large multi-generational audience that will expand the brand's footprint significantly. This will truly disrupt the footwear marketplace", stated Ike S. Franco, Infinity Brands’ chief executive officer, about the deal.

The company will exclusively design and produce Le Tigre footwear to be sold through DSW and The Shoe Company direct-to-consumer stores and .com channels, in addition to select wholesale accounts and through letigreglobal.com.