Henry Jacobson LLC and Artex International announced today that they have entered into a joint venture concession agreement to license Artex to exclusively sell Henry Jacobson sportswear franchises in North America, Hong Kong and China. Artex will also be licensed to retail Henry Jacobson sportswear, dress shirts, ties and accessories in Hong Kong and mainland China.

Henry Jacobson works in San Francisco and is a designer of men's luxury apparel and accessories. His works are available in boutiques and high-end department stores. Henry Jacobson, LLC granted Artex International its sportswear franchise, Kellwood a dress shirt franchise, Mulberry Neckwear a tie franchise, and Peerless a custom garment franchise. The company has offices in Richmond, California and New York City. According to the agreement, Artex will produce and sell Jacobson's Spring 2007 collection. The company plans to open the first Henry Jacobson retail store in China in 2008.

Artex International is a Hong Kong-based conglomerate and its 17 factories produce a wide range of luxury goods in the field of tailored clothing, sportswear, apparel and accessories. Artex is already the main producer of Henry Jacobson and, to date, is responsible for the production of most of the sportswear line of Henry Jacobson products.

Alan Burks, president of Henry Jacobson, stated: “This will be a true joint venture. Resource sharing allows Henry Jacobson, brand founder and creative director, to guide every aspect of design.”

Burks said: "Artex is the best production partner we can think of. They not only have world-class quality, but they always do their utmost to promote brand nurture. They get the franchise right."

Burks said that sales of the brand at Henry Jacobson's New York showroom will continue to be led by Kevin McMullan. Since its inception in 2003, Kevin McMullan has served as vice president of sales for the brand.

Artex CEO Lawrence Lam said: “We are very pleased to cooperate with Henry Jacobson in this way. Since Henry released his first apparel line, we have been watching his growth on the career path of the designer, his passion, his aesthetic and The attention to detail has impressed us."

Lam said that Jacobson's work broadened the definition of classic clothing. His California-influenced luxury style made him popular among luxury consumers in the United States, China and the world.

Henry Jacobson, Creative Director and Chief Executive Officer, said: "Artex's relationship with us is like family. They have always been confident in the brand and my vision. I am very happy."