Kooba is a leading contemporary designer of women’s luxury handbags, accessories, and apparel. Founded in 1998 by New York designer Bonnie Held, the company started as a handbag firm and quickly grew into a leader in the contemporary handbag market. Since then, the brand expanded into a full accessories line and more recently, a women’s ready-to-wear collection. Kooba’s products are known for their modern approach, relaxed attitude, and timeless design sensibility.
The brand has gained a loyal following among celebrities, stylists, editors, luxury hoppers, and trendsetters. The much sought-after products are sold in premier contemporary and luxury stores both domestically and internationally including Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Barneys, Bloomingdale’s, and Scoop.
Kooba engaged The Sage Group to explore potential strategic and financial buyers. Ultimately, Kooba selected to recapitalize with Swander Pace Capital, a private equity firm focused on investing in North American middle-market consumer product companies. Together, the companies will focus on improving infrastructure and growth in new markets.