Authentic Brands Group has signed a partnership with distributor Chapters Brand Group to reintroduce Rockport across the UK and Ireland.

Founded in 1971, the leather footwear brand was reportedly one of the first to engineer athletic soles into its dress shoes, but fell out of favour. Authentic rescued it from bankruptcy in summer 2023.

Graeme Nichol, managing director at Chapters, said: “There’s a clear demand for footwear that combines everyday functionality with thoughtful design and Rockport delivers exactly that. The Umbwe is an iconic footwear classic, and we’ve stuck faithfully to the brand’s original specifications, using Vibram soles, Hydroshield membranes, full moccasin construction, and sumptuous, buttery calf leathers to ensure comfort and quality remain at the forefront.”

In the US, Authentic appointed Marc Fisher Footwear to lead the brand’s footwear design, wholesale and e-commerce operations in the territory.

The M&A, licensing and brand strategy platform believes there is a significant market for Rockport, with opportunities to evolve into a full lifestyle offering.