Joe Fresh and Aldo partner on footwear line

Loblaw Co. says its Joe Fresh brand is expanding its shoe business. The company has signed a global licence agreement with Aldo Group, which will design and produce the footwear under the Joe Fresh brand. The first Joe Fresh shoes under the new deal will launch next spring. Aldo Group has more than 1,800 stores in 93 countries, including Canada. The company also makes private label products for fashion and retail partners. Joe Fresh is part of Loblaw's diversification beyond its traditional grocery business. The brand was launched in 2006 and has grown to include clothing, accessories, footwear and cosmetics. In addition to Loblaw stores, Joe Fresh products can be found in standalone stores, J.C. Penney and online. The company has also opened stores in South Korea, Saudi Arabia and Egypt with local partners.