Cortina has announced the strategic integration of its BBS (Best Buy Shoes) and Private Label divisions into a single, future-focused entity – called Cortina Private Label.

This bold move marks a major milestone in Cortina’s long-term strategy to provide the most agile, scalable and customer-focused private label solution in the global footwear industry.

Under the new structure, Cortina Private Label will offer one streamlined collection with three distinct business models, each tailored to meet the needs of today’s diverse retail landscape:

  • First price (formerly BBS): Trend-driven, seasonal footwear focusing on volume and competitive pricing;
  • Vertical business: A fully integrated concept-to-shelf model where customers co-create their next bestseller – offering speed, control and full execution;
  • Own developments: Customer-driven private label collections built on trend forecasting, material innovation and in-depth market expertise.

By bringing together the strengths of both divisions – talent, tools and supplier networks – into Cortina Private Label, Cortina is streamlining its operations and creating a cohesive, high-performance unit with deeper market know-how. The result? A smarter, faster and more scalable private label offering, delivering the most agile and competitive setup in the market.

“We’re simplifying our structure to maximise what we do best: combining scale, creativity and speed to market,” said Thomas Vulliez, General Director of Cortina Private Label. “This transformation reflects our long-term strategy, strengthens our capabilities and creates an unbeatable value proposition for customers worldwide.”

Enhanced customer experience

This transformation goes beyond internal change – it directly benefits customers. With an even stronger service, an expanded product range and improved tools, the unified Cortina Private Label department will deliver a better customer experience across every touchpoint. There will be dedicated contacts per region and business model, and customers can expect faster, smarter product cycles through optimised coordination across design, sourcing and supply chain.

“We’re not just integrating; we’re evolving,” Mr Vulliez went on. “This transformation allows us to serve our partners better, faster and more flexibly with a seamless integration of private label, vertical and development services – all under one roof.”

This strategic reorganisation underscores Cortina’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence and long-term retail partnerships. With a clearer structure, integrated service model and future-ready tools, Cortina Private Label is setting a new benchmark for private label success and shaping the future of retail – together with its partners.