Luggage e-retailer purchased by iconic travel brand

eBags is about to embark on a new journey.



The online luggage retailer is being acquired by Samsonite International. The deal, which is valued at $105 million, is part of Samsonite’s ongoing strategy to accelerate the growth of its direct-to-consumer, e-commerce business, and strengthen its existing digital capabilities, the company reported.



eBags, which will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Samsonite, will keep its name, remain in Greenwood Village, Colorado, and CEO Mike Edwards will continue to be the head of the company, according to the Denver Post.



The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2017.



eBags, which was founded in 1998, has created a niche online selling travel bags and accessories. In addition to selling merchandise under the eBags brand, it also carries luggage from leading travel and fashion brands — including Samsonite.



“This is an exciting day for eBags and we are thrilled to be joining the Samsonite family. Their considerable experience and well-established presence in the travel luggage industry, together with our digital capabilities and passion for travel, are a perfect match,” said eBags’ Edwards. “We look forward to forging a strong partnership, and to ensuring that our customers are given the best service and a diverse and compelling product offering.”



eBags reported net sales of $158.51 million for the fiscal year ended December 25, 2016, an increase of 23.5% from $128.3 million during the fiscal year ended December 27, 2015.