FASHION RETAIL NEWS UK
Watches of Switzerland Group has acquired Hodinkee, the US digital editorial content provider for luxury watch enthusiasts.
The group said the move will grow its sector leadership online and help it to capture market share, particularly in the US market.
Founded in 2008, New York based Hodinkee offers digital print and video content and limited edition watch collaborations, as well as watch and jewellery insurance services. The company attracts 22.2 million annual unique visitors to its website and has over one million social media followers.
On completion of the transaction, Watches of Switzerland Group will integrate Hodinkee’s existing commercial activities, including its exclusive luxury watch limited edition collaborations, with all retail traffic directed to Watches of Switzerland’s US ecommerce site.
Meanwhile, Hodinkee founder Ben Clymer will be returning to lead the business for the first time since he stepped down as chief executive in December 2020.
Watches of Switzerland Group said Hodinkee will continue to have editorial independence as an editorial media organisation following the acquisition to protect its impartial journalism.
Brian Duffy, the group’s chief executive, said: “We have been avid followers of Hodinkee for many years and have long respected Ben and his team’s success in creating the undisputed destination for luxury watch enthusiasts.
“The acquisition of Hodinkee directly supports our ecommerce business, driving traffic and brand awareness across our markets, and particularly in the US, further enhancing our sector leadership online.”