Breakup at Liz
Designer NarcisoRodriguez is leaving Liz Claiborne Inc. after more than a year at the New York–based clothing company. In May 2007, Liz acquired a 50 percent stake in the Narciso Rodriguez name and trademarks and said it would form a new company to develop the brand in the luxury-designer segment. But since that agreement, the luxury category has changed, as consumers are weathering tough financial times. Rodriguez will regain full ownership of the trademarks and businesses bearing his name while Liz will provide some transition services to the designer. William McComb, Liz Claiborne’s chief executive, said differences emerged as to how to best achieve organic growth of the Narciso Rodriguez brand. He said the split was a mutual agreement.
