New Era Cap Acquires Apparel Maker 5th & Ocean

Global headwear and apparel designer New Era Cap Co. Inc. has acquired 5th & Ocean, a privately held apparel manufacturer in Miami, Florida.

The acquisition will help New Era rapidly expand its line of sports and fashion apparel by tapping into 5th & Ocean's expertise and existing market relationships. Currently, 5th & Ocean manufactures men's, women's and kids' apparel for major U.S. sports leagues, including Major League Baseball, as well as notable properties including Victoria's Secret/PINK and Dallas Cowboys Merchandising.

"To ensure the long-term growth of New Era in this changing economic landscape, we need to look for strategic ways to diversify our business," said Christopher H. Koch, CEO of New Era Cap. "The acquisition of 5th & Ocean continues to move us forward with our strategy to become a well-rounded lifestyle brand. This was an opportunity we simply could not pass up."

Best known as the official on-field cap for Major League Baseball, New Era entered the apparel arena in 2007.

Recently, in an effort to expand its college business, New Era launched a full collection of apparel and headwear that supports Historically Black Colleges and Universities called "New Era presents Tradition." Working with 5th & Ocean will not only complement these efforts, but New Era's core headwear business as well.