75 year old central Ohio company acquired by Tokyo-based brand

A Pickerington-based management platform specializing in footwear happens to be one of central Ohio’s oldest companies, and it now has new owners.

According to a press release, RG Barry Brands has officially been acquired by a subsidiary of Marubeni Corporation, a brand headquartered in Tokyo.

RG Barry Brands includes the famous footwear brands Dearfoams, Planet A, and Baggallini, plus Columbus Product Group. Florence Melton introduced foam footwear to the world when she created the Dearfoams brand in 1947, and it’s been popular ever since, with other national brands like Ugg taking note on foam slippers, boots, and sandals.

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“Partnering with MGCU and Marubeni, who are positioned to make strategic investments in growth companies aiming to scale, is a testament to the strength of RGB and the unwavering commitment of our team,” said RGB Brands CEO, Bob Mullaney. “This strategic deal unlocks enormous potential to apply the RGB way to new brands and to bring sustainable innovation to footwear, accessories, and adjacent categories. We are very excited to partner with MGCU and Marubeni, and to realize RGB’s boundless potential.”

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