Hurley Founder Bob Hurley has commented publicly for the first time about all the changes at Hurley under new owner Bluestar Alliance.
Bluestar, which bought Hurley from Nike in December, has cut Nike athletes and ambassadors, and signed a multitude of licensing deals for men’s, women’s, swim, outerwear, cosmetics and more.
While some employees have landed jobs with new licensees, many have not and job cuts are expected because of the change to a licensing business model.
Bob sent SES the following comment.
Bob Hurley: “I’ve heard and read about some things going on at the company, but truly don’t know, simply because myself or my family are no longer with the brand.
“If what I’m hearing now is true, it makes me really sad.
“Our fundamental principles were inspiration, inclusion, innovation, positivity and diversity.
“The Hurley brand was built on the idea of the golden rule – treating employees, vendors, retailers, athletes, artists and musicians as we would like to be treated.
“As a result, the community felt inspired, empowered, passionate and willing to do amazing things, thereby changing the game.
“Pat O’Connell and his group assembled one of the most exciting, innovative and successful teams ever in the history of surfing. For that, we are super grateful.”
