Global Icons acquires Evergreen Concepts

Los Angeles— Licensing and merchandising agency Global Icons has purchased another Los Angeles-based licensing agency, Evergreen Concepts.

Evergreen was founded in 2003 by two former Disney colleagues, Melissa Segal and Jeff Fradin, filling a niche of licensing from sources other than just media. The company's portfolio included Build-A-Bear Workshop, a specialty retailer that took the United States by storm, enabling shoppers to make and personalize their own stuffed animals. The retailer also opened stores in Europe, Asia and Australia.

Other contents of Evergreen's portfolio were early childhood development brand Brainy Baby, Lavaggi the "Artist of Hope" and Pretty Tough, a new lifestyle brand developed for female athletes of all ages.

Global Icons will inherit Evergreen Concept's portfolio, adding them to its current client list that includes Airstream, Baileys, Chevron, Chuck E Cheese's, Duncan Hines, Igloo and Pep Boys, to name a few.

"The acquisition of Evergreen Concepts is a first step in our overall long-term strategy to acquire strong, successful and profitable licensing entities," said Mike Gard, chief operating office of Global Icons. "We are very pleased that our strategic direction is being led by such a fantastic first, and we recognize the value and equity Evergreen brings to the brand licensing table."

Jeff Lotman, CEO of Global Icons, said he is impressed with Evergreen's strong brands that fit the criteria of well-known and beloved equities with long-term appeal.

Segal and Fradin said they are confident Global Icons is the perfect company to take over and continue what they started.