DK Company has entered into a partnership with the German fashion brand IVY OAK and, at the same time, acquired a majority stake in the company. This is yet another strategic step in DK Company’s international growth strategy and marks a strengthened presence in the important German market. 

The company will be placed under DK Company’s subsidiary and office in Copenhagen, led by CEO and co-owner Jens Obel, who states: 

DK Company has acquired a majority stake in German fashion brand IVY OAK, strengthening its foothold in Germany and the premium fashion segment.
IVY OAK will relocate its HQ to Copenhagen while keeping its creative studio in Berlin.
Founder Caroline Gentz remains co-owner and Creative Director to preserve the brand’s sustainable, design-led DNA as DK Company scales its global growth strategy.

“Founder Caroline Gentz will remain as co-owner and Creative Director and will join the board of directors, where she will ensure continuity in the brand’s vision and values, which is of great importance for the brand’s future growth.”

IVY OAK is known for its timeless design philosophy, sustainable profile, and strong presence in the European fashion market. As part of the partnership, IVY OAK’s headquarters will move to Copenhagen, and the company will be transformed from IVY OAK GmbH to IVY OAK ApS, while the creative studio will remain in Berlin. This structure creates a direct bridge between Berlin’s creative energy and Copenhagen’s international recognition in fashion and sustainability. 

“DK Company is proud to announce its second acquisition in Germany – one of Europe’s most important fashion markets. With IVY OAK, we see a perfect match between a strong, design-driven brand and DK Company’s expertise in international marketing and distribution,” says Jens Obel. 

“This acquisition supports our strategy of investing in the premium segment, where we already have successful brands such as Gestuz, Wood Wood, InWear, and My Essential Wardrobe. At the same time, we ensure that IVY OAK remains true to its creative and sustainable DNA – with Caroline Gentz as a continuing co-owner and visionary driving force behind the brand.”

The partnership with IVY OAK marks an important step in DK Company’s ambition to expand its position in Germany. With IVY OAK’s loyal customer base, strong brand identity, and established presence in both B2B and B2C channels, DK Company strengthens its access to new market shares. 

Caroline Gentz adds: “This partnership brings IVY OAK the necessary capacity and scale to grow internationally – without compromising our values. I look forward to dedicating all my energy to creative development and ensuring that the brand continues to evolve with a strong design focus and long-term perspective.”

Going forward, IVY OAK will continue to strengthen both its B2B and B2C business, among other things through the expansion of the Never Out of Stock program and the further development of the Rerun concept, which supports the brand’s timeless and responsible approach to fashion.

Note: The headline, insights, and image of this press release may have been refined by the Fibre2Fashion staff; the rest of the content remains unchanged.

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (RM)

Accessories specialist Strathberry has launched its new bag The Barra, inspired by the Scottish island of the same name. It’s a “craft-meets-function” moment for the brand that picks up on Barra’s “rich weaving heritage and artisanal knotting”.

Hence, the new design brings these “timeless traditions to life through sculptural, knotted details and hand-stitched finishing… embodying a harmonious balance of artistry and utility”, we’re told.

For a luxury bags company like Strathberry, key bag launches can be game-changing events and the new Barra variants have a starring role on its website as well as being heavily promoted on its social media feeds.

Created with versatility in mind, The Barra Tote is designed to be spacious enough to carry the now-essential  laptop, water bottle, and daily essentials creating “a refined yet reliable carryall for life on the go”.

Created to transition from early-morning meetings to evening errands, we’re told “it’s the ultimate ‘everything bag’ that pairs Strathberry’s signature sophistication with practical, modern appeal”.

Available in both the original and mini sizes, The Barra is priced $895/£625 and $695/£495, respectively.

The company has been launching a raft of products in recent periods. And last month, Strathberry expanded its product reach entering ready-to-wear and introducing its first cashmere collection. That’s an important step in widening its appeal.

Again, made in the brand’s home country, Scotland, the new pieces are also “rooted in heritage and inspired by a commitment to conscious luxury”. They include a range of capes and accessories such as gloves, scarves, beanie hats, cable headbands and travel wraps.