Archie Comics, Kate Spade New York partnership announced

By John Freeman on July 14, 2020

Archie Comics and Kate Spade New York have announced plans to launch a chic and colourful collaboration starring classic comic BFF’s – Betty Cooper and Veronica Lodge, in a deal licensed by King Features Syndicate.

King Features is home to some of the world’s most popular entertainment characters and licensing agent for Archie Comics, whose iconic library includes characters such as Archie, Jughead, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Katy Keene and Josie and the Pussycats.

Inspired by the classic 1940s Archie comic book style, in a press statement the range is described as a beautifully optimistic and feminine collection, that includes a variety of handbags, tote bags, backpacks, keychains, pin badges and small leather goods offerings consisting of wallets, pouches and coin purses.

Riverdale High’s best friend duo shines in this fun and flirty collaboration that showcases the characters’ differing personal styles; Betty’s classic preppy flair and Veronica’s sleek dark style are both fabulously reflected throughout the line.

“When you think of best friends, the first people that come to mind are Betty and Veronica,” said Archie Comics CEO and Publisher Jon Goldwater.

“Having the chance to partner with Kate Spade for this amazing collaboration is a dream, and Betty and Veronica are a perfect match for the Kate Spade New York brand.”

“We are thrilled to be working with Kate Spade New York on behalf of Archie Comics to bring Riverdale High’s most fashionable duo to fans across the nation and select markets around the globe,” said King Features Vice President and General Manager, Global Head of Licensing Carla Silva. “This collection not only celebrates Betty and Veronica’s unique sense of style, but also the special bond of their friendship.”

The Kate Spade x Betty and Veronica collection is available worldwide at Kate Spade New York Outlet stores, although it doesn’t yet appear to feature on the UK web site.

Nearly 80 years after the Riverdale High gang’s historic debut, Archie remains one of the hottest and most vibrant comic properties in the world. Other product launches King Features has recently fostered on behalf of Archie Comics include a Betty & Veronica x Torrid x Project Runway All-Stars apparel collaboration, apparel from Bioworld and Philcos, a gaming app from Ludia, collectible toys from Funko, toys from Super7, statues and miniatures from Icon Heroes, puzzles by Outset Media, Zynga slot machines and more.

• Archie Comics is online at archiecomics.com

• Kate Spade New York UK Site

John Freeman

The founder of downthetubes, which he established in 1998. John works as a comics and magazine editor, writer, and on promotional work for the Lakes International Comic Art Festival. He is currently editor of Star Trek Explorer, published by Titan – his third tour of duty on the title originally titled Star Trek Magazine.

Working in British comics publishing since the 1980s, his credits include editor of titles such as Doctor Who Magazine, Babylon 5 Magazine, and more. He also edited the comics anthology STRIP Magazine and edited several audio comics for ROK Comics. He has also edited several comic collections, including volumes of “Charley’s War” and “Dan Dare”.

He’s the writer of “Pilgrim: Secrets and Lies” for B7 Comics; “Crucible”, a creator-owned project with 2000AD artist Smuzz; and “Death Duty” and “Skow Dogs” with Dave Hailwood.