Nau version 2.0: Horny Toad acquires Nau assets allowing company to re-launch
When Nau announced that it was shutting down shop, everyone from the eco-friendly to the fashionistas were sad to see the socially and environmentally responsible company go. But don’t go shedding tears for fashionable and eco-friendly clothing just yet. Today Horny Toad, a like-minded entrepreneurial company based in Santa Barbara, announced that it is buying up the remaining Nau assets. Believing in the same core principles that Nau was founded on, Horny Toad will provide operational support to the company and allow it to launch a new and improved version of Nau.
“We saw in Nau an innovative brand representing the perfect blend of outdoor, urban fashion sensibility with an unwavering commitment to sustainability. It is all about their innovative product, authentic brand and most importantly the talented group behind those attributes. Our long term vision is to create a family of complimentary brands that can learn from one another while embodying a do the right thing philosophy,” said Gordon Seabury, CEO of Horny Toad.
Nau’s new line will launch August 1, 2008, with a smaller core team focused on product and brand development. While your waiting for the new stuff, you will still be able to take advantage of “old Nau’s” discounted line. But don’t wait too long, 50% off the spring and summer line will only last through the end of July.
It’s exciting to know that a company with good beliefs and policies is being brought back to life, but I’m still crossing my fingers for eco-friendly and responsible jeans that are just a little cheaper; we’ll see what August will bring!
Very encouraging to hear! Let’s hope that Horny Toad’s people have been watching the press, and the reaction on blogs in regards to Nau, and learns how to better market, create, price and distribute the product.
I hope they design clothe for more than tall, skinny people! I bought a pair of pants once and they were disco tight, very unflattering. And I had a friend buy a shirt only to have the sleeves far too long. I think the idea and spirit behind Nau is great, but the execution missed the mark, in my opinion.
Since the previous leadership of NAU buried it in the dirt, l hope that Horny Toad keeps it well grounded. The brand and it’s concept need to be built slowly and methodically, no quick ascension plan will work with this type of softline. It’s customer base expects authenticity and durable business practices, not flashiness and IPO based metrics. I am not convinced by any business until I see them doing the right thing for 3 to 5+ years. All the best to Mr Seabury and Horny Toad.
Its always sad to lose a niche leader like Nau. We all love our Patagonia, but competition is a good thing!
Welcome back Nau!