Henri Bendel, Focusing on its Brand, Ceases Third-Party Sales

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In an effort to put an emphasis on its own brand, Henri Bendel will stop selling products from other companies, WWD reports today. The decision was made last week, the paper says, and it will largely affect the department's beauty and jewelry offerings.

The reason behind the move is that the store believes its own products, which includes handbags, leather goods, jewelry, cosmetics, and home fragrances, are its "core business." "Why not take that prime space and put the spotlight on our brand, instead of on all brands?" an unnamed source said to WWD.

However, not everyone sees the move as a positive, especially for the third-party brands who are losing a prominent vendor. "It was a shame; it was a great launch pad," said Don Pettit, CEO of Mally Beauty, which is currently available at the Fifth Avenue store.

If you have any favorite-non house brands at Bendel, it'd be best to stock up now—the transition is expected to begin in September.
· Henri Bendel Cutting Ties With Third-Party Vendors [WWD]
· Rent the Runway Opens a New Showroom at Henri Bendel [Racked NY]
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