SI Swimsuit Dives into Apparel

Raj Swim has signed on as the first global apparel licensee for Sports Illustrated.

Time Inc.’s Sports Illustrated Swimsuit and Raj Swim have teamed up to develop exclusive new lines of swim and active apparel inspired by the iconic publication.

Under the terms of the multi-year agreement, both companies will collaborate on a range of collections designed to reach “all generations, body types and personalities.” A first look at the upcoming SI Swimsuit lines, as well as more details, will be revealed later this summer.

The agreement also marks the first global apparel license for SI Swimsuit.

“This is a natural evolution for Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, which has long been considered the authority on swim style,” says Bruce Gersh, senior vice president, strategy and business development, Time Inc. “The opportunity to expand the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit brand into the premium apparel space is a perfect fit, and it falls in line with our strategy to unlock new consumer programs leveraging Time Inc. brands. Raj Swim has a rich history and is highly respected in the industry, making the company an ideal fit to help bring the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit brand to life.”

The first swimwear and activewear collections will be available in early 2018 in conjunction with the launch of the annual SI Swimsuit issue. Select items will also be featured in the issue and on SI’s digital properties, including an e-commerce integration on SI.com.

“We are focused on long-term, highly sought-after global brands, and Sports Illustrated Swimsuit has endless opportunities for growth,” says Brenda West, president, Raj Swim. “We see the future of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, swim and active collections as a strong complement to our business. The brand has instant recognition for consumers around the world. The swim and active ecosystems are evolving, and this collaboration sets the stage for infinite possibilities.”