David Beckham to launch fashion label - following in the footsteps of wife Victoria

The former football star is set to raise his fashion profile even further

Sports, music, fashion, fragrance – the Beckhams to add another business to their empire.

David Beckham is following in the footsteps of wife Victoria by launching his own menswear label with business partner Simon Fuller.

The former football star has already created an underwear line with high street giant H&M and has raised his fashion profile even further with numerous collaborations with brands such as Adidas and Belstaff, but having his own fashion label is another thing entirely.

David Beckham Bodywear for H&M

He’s reportedly signed a deal with Global Brands, which is a subsidiary of the Hong Kong-based consumer brands supplier Li & Fung – also responsible for the distribution of more than 350 labels including Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger and New Balance.

According to WWD, Global Brands plans to expand “by creating large scale global brands in partnership with a select number of high profile iconic sports and entertainment stars”. And, well, Beckham seems to fit the bill just perfectly.

The joint venture, described as “first-of-its-kind” by Beckham himself, will reportedly “capitalise on Beckham’s star power and status as one of the world’s most famous and style icons”.

Fuller has been a long-time business partner and advisor for both David and Victoria Beckham (since the couple’s early days) and was the driving force behind Victoria’s womenswear label and its global success.

So the deal is set to combine Fuller’s “deep understanding of consumer, talent and sports and entertainment rights” with Global Brand’s “expertise in distribution, retail and design”.

Bruce Rockowitz, chief executive officer and vice chairman of Global Brands, praised Beckham. He said: "I have long admired his ability to push boundaries and drive trends in both sports and fashion.

“With the glamour and celebrity that David brings to this joint venture, together with Simon's remarkable business acumen and his many years as a successful entrepreneur in the world of sports and entertainment, I see an exciting future for our partnership in creating incredible brands.”

Will the label be casual sportswear, streetwear or high-end? Watch this space.