Kellwood InitiatesGerber Offer, To Supply Casual MaleSt. Louis-based Kellwood Co. is proceeding with plans to acquire Greenville, S.C.-based Gerber Childrenswear Inc. Kellwood subsidiary Cradle Inc. has commenced an offer to exchange any and all outstanding shares of Gerber common stock for cash and Kellwood common stock. In addition to marketing infant and toddler apparel and related products, Gerber Childrenswear owns Auburn Hosiery Mills Inc., Auburn, Ky., and Sport Socks Co. Ltd., Ireland.Edward Kittredge, chairman, president and CEO of Gerber Childrenswear, will continue to head the company, reporting to Robert C. Skinner, corporate vice president of Kellwood.In other news, Kellwood has signed a contract to supply mens sportswear, activewear and furnishings to Designs Inc., new owner of Casual Male Corp. Total purchases over the seven-year term should exceed $400 million, with first shipments targeted for Spring 2003.July 2002
