Henri Bendel's parent company, L Brands, revealed that they will discontinue doing business with third-party vendors in order to concentrate on in-house brands at the Fifth Avenue flaship store. This change will largely affect the beauty and jewelry department of the store.
WWD reported that their management feels that the change gives the flagship store the ability to hone in on their core business, which includes the Bendel's branded handbags, fashion accessories and jewelry, cosmetics and travel accessories, small leather, hair goods and home fragrances.
Bendel's other 28 stores and Web site, which already are focused on the core business, will remain the same. "Why not take that prime space and put the spotlight on our brand, instead of on all brands?" said a source.
Some of the third-party brands are young and still in their growing stages like Mally Beauty, Butter London, Ciaté, Per-fekt and L'Artisan Parfumeur. "It was a shame; it was a great launch pad," said Don Pettit, chief executive officer of Mally Beauty. Bendel's transition in the flagship is expected to begin in September.Videos