Hilco Global Announces Sale of Iconic Retail and Fashion Intellectual Properties

In a significant move within the retail and fashion sectors, Hilco Global Professional Services has announced its management of the sale of intellectual property assets associated with three renowned brands: Filene's Basement®, Running of the Brides®, and Stanley Blacker®. This initiative invites interested parties to express their interest by March 18, 2026.

Filene's Basement®: A History of Value-Driven Retail

Founded in 1909, Filene's Basement was the pioneer of the off-price retail concept in the United States. The brand became synonymous with a unique shopping experience, often described as a treasure hunt due to its ever-changing inventory and automatic markdown strategies. At its height, Filene's Basement boasted over 50 locations across the Northeast, Middle Atlantic, Midwest, and Southeast, achieving net sales of around $422 million for the year ending January 31, 2009.

The intellectual property associated with Filene's Basement includes registered trademarks and domain names, offering a solid foundation for potential eCommerce initiatives, licensing opportunities, off-price retail strategies, and even private-label product extensions. With its rich heritage in value-driven retail, this brand holds strong recognition among consumers seeking quality at a bargain.

Running of the Brides®: A National Sensation

Launched in 1947, Running of the Brides captured national attention as a must-attend event for brides-to-be, showcasing designer wedding gowns at incredible discounts. This event became a cultural phenomenon, known for its excitement and urgency, drawing thousands of brides each year. Notably, it was featured on major national media outlets like The Oprah Winfrey Show and The Today Show.

The intellectual property associated with Running of the Brides includes registered trademarks and domain names, providing an opportunity for a standalone experiential event, a digital engagement platform, or licensed activations. The brand resonates strongly with Generations X and Y, making it a compelling investment for those looking to tap into wedding season enthusiasm.

Stanley Blacker®: Classic American Fashion

Established in 1955, Stanley Blacker represents a cornerstone of American menswear, known for its classic tailoring and refined sportswear. A pioneer in the branded menswear sector, Stanley Blacker cultivated a loyal customer base and achieved approximately $90 million in annual sales at its peak. It also maintained partnerships with 18 licensees across diverse categories.

The assets available for acquisition include registered trademarks and domain names, presenting a unique opportunity for buyers aiming to revamp and reposition an established American menswear label. This brand's long-standing reputation in the industry and strong recognition makes it an attractive option for strategic buyers.

Strategic Opportunities and Insights

Gabe Fried, the Executive Director at Hilco Global, commented on the uniqueness of this opportunity, stating, "These three iconic brands represent rare chances to acquire intellectual property with strong name recognition and built-in consumer equity. Each offers a flexible platform for relaunch, licensing, or digital-first initiatives across retail, fashion, and experiential channels."

For interested parties, Hilco Global encourages direct contact to gather more information about this exceptional opportunity to acquire these historical brands. This sale not only marks a pivotal moment for Hilco Global but also highlights the ongoing value and potential for growth within the retail and fashion industries.

To stay updated on this opportunity, those interested can visit Hilco Global for further details.

This marks an exceptional moment in the retail sector as Hilco Global invites offers and interest in three beloved brands with a rich history and potential for renewal. Whether you're a retailer, venture capital firm, or entrepreneur, this could be your chance to step into the storied past and promising future of American retail fashion.