Draper online footwear company KNS International acquires Birdies

KNS International, a Draper-based online footwear retailer, has acquired Birdies, a women’s footwear brand headquartered in Sacramento, California. Birdies is known for its highly loyal customer base and substantial social media following.

“I have long admired the Birdies brand and the creative vision that founders Bianca Gates and Marisa Sharkey brought to life,” said Greg Tunney, CEO of KNS. “Their direct-to-consumer approach has resonated with women across the globe, enabling the brand to punch above its weight in the footwear category. Birdies will be a flagship brand within the KNS portfolio, bringing a combination of fashion and comfort for its expanding base of consumers.”

“We are thrilled to join the KNS family, a company that shares our passion for innovation, quality and the consumer,” said Gates, co-founder of Birdies, who will join KNS as brand president. “This partnership marks an exciting new chapter, enabling us to scale our mission of delivering both comfort and style in a way that resonates with our loyal customers. With KNS’ extensive expertise and resources, Birdies will quickly have the opportunity to expand our reach while staying true to the products and community that define Birdies.”

“We are excited to welcome Birdies into the organization at KNS and I look forward to collaborating with the Birdies team to ensure a smooth transition and continued growth,” Tunney added.

Birdies will join the KNS brand portfolio, which includes Journee, Taft and Vance.

KNS offers its brands online and through retailers nationwide. Its system handles about 30,000 drop-ship orders daily.

KNS International is backed by Centre Partners, a New York City private equity firm.