Moving to expand its growing accessories business, Paul Frank Industries, Newport Beach, has signed a license agreement with Baum Vision in Newport Beach to create and distribute a new line of Paul Frank Eyewear beginning in spring 2002.
The two companies have formed PF Eye LLC, and they plan to debut the new products at this fall’s industry trade shows.
The 6-year-old company named after designer Paul Frank is best known for its T-shirts, apparel, pajamas and junior accessories such as purses featuring nostalgic cartoon characters, especially its popular monkey logo, Julius. Paul Frank Industries also operates retail stores in Newport Beach and in San Francisco with plans to expand into new locations in Tokyo, Los Angeles and London next year.
One-year-old Baum Vision is headed by Shane Baum, a former vice president of optical at Mossimo Inc. in Irvine and most recently vice president of design at Optical Shop of Aspen in Aliso Viejo. His company also designs frames for sportswear manufacturer Modern Amusement in Costa Mesa and Australian-based Mooks Clothing.
The 12-piece sunglasses collection, which will feature Paul Frank’s animated logos, will sell at retail for between $70 and $115, Baum said.
