Perry Ellis, Matjar Al Watany bringing Penguin clothing to Saudi Arabia

Clothing designer Perry Ellis International Inc. said Wednesday it is teaming up with Al Matjar Al Watany Trading Establishment to design and distribute Original Penguin sportswear in Saudi Arabia.

“We are thrilled about the partnership with Matjar Al Watany and look forward to working with their team to offer Original Penguin’s lifestyle product while continuing the expansion of our global reach," Perry Ellis Chairman and CEO George Feldenkreis said.

The clothing will be available at Al Matjar Al Watany retail stores, malls, and street retail shops. The agreement also includes a social media campaign to present the brand.

“Matjar Al Watany is very pleased to formalize an agreement with Perry Ellis to launch the Original Penguin brand within the Saudi Arabian market," Matjar Al Watany Owner and President Salah Mohammed Al Shaikh said. "Given our experience of the fashion sportswear business, we are encouraged to add a full lifestyle brand to our portfolio."

The Original Penguin brand emerged during the 1950s with the marketing of a golf shirt. The company's causal but classy style was soon adopted by such celebrities as Frank Sinatra and Clint Eastwood. Today it offers a full line of men's suits, watches, bags, belts, hats and shoes, as well as clothing for women and children.

Original Penguin is one of more than a dozen brands owned by Perry Ellis International.