PROVIDENCE, R.I., July 31, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Giovanni Feroce, CEO of Alex and Ani, LLC, today announced that a preliminary agreement establishing a cooperative relationship between Alex and Ani and Wilson's of Wickford in North Kingstown, RI has begun. Together, the lifestyle brand and the long-standing specialty store, each with a passion for Rhode Island and the community, will initiate a reinvigoration of the surrounding local economy.
"When Wilson's of Wickford began in 1944, Ethel and Edward Wilson started a company focused on exceptional quality, unrivaled customer service and investment in the community. Three generations later, the Wilson family continues to exemplify this commitment to their customers and neighbors," said Mr. Feroce. "Alex and Ani, with like-minded dedication, will provide a foundation for expansion and additional business opportunities within this community."
Alex and Ani will purchase the Wilson's property in Wickford, located in North Kingstown, RI, where the men's and women's clothing store will continue to fully operate in approximately half of the first floor retail space. Teas and Javas – serving "Love in a Cup," Alex and Ani's latest lifestyle venture, will occupy the remainder of the first floor. Serving gourmet beverages and local delicacies, Teas and Javas in Wickford will be its third location, joining Wayland Square in Providence, RI and soon, Chapel View in Cranston, RI; overall, plans call for a total of six new locations in 2012.
"I'm overjoyed that two family-owned and operated businesses that share a passion for their state and a commitment of charitable work within their communities are forming this strategic alliance," said Designer Carolyn Rafaelian, Owner and President of Alex and Ani. "The presence of Teas and Javas in this legendary retail landmark will infuse Wickford Village with a new energy that will help revitalize one of Rhode Island's most picturesque business districts."
"Teas and Javas in Wickford will prove to be an exciting addition to the village as well as strengthen the local economy in general," noted Craig Wilson. "This newly-formed relationship provides new business ideas and unique concepts that will soon be on the drawing board," added Jim Wilson. "I know I speak for Wilson's, Wickford's residents and our seasonal visitors when I offer the warmest of welcomes to Alex and Ani," Paul Wilson stated.
Wilson's of Wickford is located at 35 Brown Street, Wickford Village in North Kingstown, RI.
About Alex and Ani
Alex and Ani, LLC. offers eco-friendly, positive energy products created by Designer Carolyn Rafaelian, Owner and President. Alex and Ani is synonymous with Made in America. Its World Headquarters are located in the Greater Providence, Rhode Island area, where its products are designed, manufactured, and assembled using recycled local materials. Carolyn believes that every individual has a positive message to share with the world and that, by incorporating powerful symbolism and design into each positive energy piece, Alex and Ani provides a vehicle for wearers to express their individuality. An Inc. 500 Company, Alex and Ani has retail stores in addition to retail partners both domestically and internationally. Please visit www.alexandani.com for more information.
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