295

Budd Hellawell Merchandising Correspondence

Currency:USD Category:Memorabilia / Music Memorabilia Start Price:NA Estimated At:1,000.00 - 2,000.00 USD
Budd Hellawell Merchandising Correspondence
1963-65. Contained in this collection from the files of Budd Hellawell’s BUDD PRODUCTIONS is a wealth of nearly ninety documents, contacts, agreements and other correspondence that serves as a chronological timeline tracing Hellawell’s involvement in securing licensing and manufacturing rights for the U.S. distribution of the Beatles berets and hats in the U.S. The earliest dated document (November 21, 1963) confirms that the London-based firm, Kangol Wear Ltd., had, at the time, exclusive worldwide rights to the marketing of the hats and berets. By February 12th, with a $1000 down-payment to Kangol (coinciding with The Beatles first visit to the U.S.), Hellawell had secured agreements between Kangol Wear, and two trims in the U.S., Reliance Manufacturing and Puritan Fashions to produce and distribute the products in the United States. Pricing, wholesale cost, advances, royalties and a multitude of details pertaining to getting the products on the shelves in time to take advantage of the coming surge of Beatlemania is discussed. Incidentally, Puritan Fashion monthly statements reveal that between February 12th and August 31st, more than 20,000 hats were sold. There is interesting correspondence between various concerned parties tracing the progress of the venture; disagreements over details of distribution rights, even several inquiries about the possibility of meeting The Beatles during the summer ‘64 tour. The bulk of the collection is dated during the first few months of 1964 with the final documents dating to mid-1965. A fascinating look at what went into getting the hats on the market.