Crate and Barrel is a household name, synonymous with upscale home furnishings and décor. But have you ever wondered what companies this retail giant owns? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Crate and Barrel, exploring its history, subsidiaries, and the companies that fall under its umbrella.
A Brief History of Crate and Barrel
Before we dive into the companies owned by Crate and Barrel, let’s take a brief look at its history. Founded in 1962 by Gordon Segal and Carole Segal, Crate and Barrel started as a small store in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood. The store’s mission was to provide high-quality, stylish home furnishings at affordable prices. Over the years, the company grew rapidly, expanding to new locations across the United States.
In 1998, Crate and Barrel was acquired by Otto Group, a German retail conglomerate. This acquisition marked a significant turning point for the company, allowing it to expand its reach and invest in new technologies. Today, Crate and Barrel operates over 90 stores across the United States and Canada, with a strong e-commerce presence.
Subsidiaries of Crate and Barrel
So, what companies does Crate and Barrel own? Here are a few notable subsidiaries:
CB2
CB2 is a subsidiary of Crate and Barrel, launched in 2000. This affordable home furnishings brand offers stylish, modern pieces at lower price points than its parent company. CB2 operates over 20 stores across the United States and Canada, with a strong online presence.
The Land of Nod
The Land of Nod is a children’s furniture and décor brand acquired by Crate and Barrel in 2018. This brand offers a range of stylish, kid-friendly pieces, from cribs and changing tables to playsets and decorative accessories.
Crate and Barrel’s Private Labels
In addition to its subsidiaries, Crate and Barrel also operates several private labels, including:
- Crate and Barrel Home: This private label offers a range of home furnishings and décor pieces, from sofas and sectionals to vases and wall art.
- Crate and Barrel Kitchen: This label focuses on kitchenware and dining essentials, including cookware, cutlery, and table linens.
Other Companies Under the Otto Group Umbrella
As a subsidiary of the Otto Group, Crate and Barrel is part of a larger retail conglomerate. Here are a few other notable companies under the Otto Group umbrella:
Witt Weiden
Witt Weiden is a German fashion retailer acquired by the Otto Group in 1995. This brand offers a range of clothing and accessories for men and women.
Freemans
Freemans is a UK-based home shopping retailer acquired by the Otto Group in 2000. This brand offers a range of home furnishings, clothing, and accessories.
Partnerships and Collaborations
In addition to its subsidiaries and private labels, Crate and Barrel has also partnered with several other companies to offer exclusive products and services. Some notable partnerships include:
- Martha Stewart Living: Crate and Barrel has partnered with Martha Stewart Living to offer a range of home furnishings and décor pieces designed by the lifestyle expert.
- West Elm: Crate and Barrel has partnered with West Elm to offer a range of modern home furnishings and décor pieces.
Conclusion
Crate and Barrel is a retail giant with a rich history and a diverse portfolio of subsidiaries and private labels. From CB2 to The Land of Nod, this company has established itself as a leader in the home furnishings and décor market. As a subsidiary of the Otto Group, Crate and Barrel is part of a larger retail conglomerate with a global reach. Whether you’re shopping for stylish home furnishings or kid-friendly décor, Crate and Barrel has something for everyone.
| Company | Description |
|---|---|
| CB2 | Affordable home furnishings brand |
| The Land of Nod | Children’s furniture and décor brand |
| Crate and Barrel Home | Private label offering home furnishings and décor pieces |
| Crate and Barrel Kitchen | Private label offering kitchenware and dining essentials |
By understanding the companies under the Crate and Barrel umbrella, we can gain a deeper appreciation for this retail giant’s commitment to quality, style, and innovation. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Crate and Barrel or just discovering its many brands and subsidiaries, there’s no denying the impact this company has had on the world of home furnishings and décor.
What is Crate and Barrel, and how did it start?
Crate and Barrel is a US-based home furnishings retailer founded in 1962 by Gordon and Carole Segal. The company started as a small store in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood, offering a unique selection of modern and contemporary furniture, housewares, and decorative accessories. The Segals’ vision was to provide high-quality, stylish products that would appeal to young couples setting up their first homes.
Over the years, Crate and Barrel expanded its operations, and today it is one of the leading home furnishings retailers in the US, with over 90 stores across the country and a strong e-commerce platform. The company is known for its curated selection of products, which includes a mix of in-house designs, collaborations with well-known designers, and products from other brands.
What companies are under the Crate and Barrel umbrella?
Crate and Barrel is part of the Otto Group, a German retail and services company. The Otto Group acquired Crate and Barrel in 1998, and since then, the company has expanded its operations and launched several new brands. Some of the companies under the Crate and Barrel umbrella include CB2, a more affordable home furnishings brand, and Crate & Kids, a children’s furniture and decor brand.
In addition to these brands, Crate and Barrel also has a number of other companies under its umbrella, including Hudson Grace, a home decor and furniture brand, and Land of Nod, a children’s furniture and decor brand. These brands offer a range of products and services that cater to different customer segments and preferences.
What is CB2, and how does it differ from Crate and Barrel?
CB2 is a home furnishings brand that was launched by Crate and Barrel in 2000. The brand is positioned as a more affordable alternative to Crate and Barrel, offering a range of modern and contemporary furniture, housewares, and decorative accessories at lower price points. CB2 is designed to appeal to a younger demographic, including first-time homebuyers and renters.
While CB2 shares some similarities with Crate and Barrel, it has a distinct brand identity and aesthetic. CB2 products are designed to be more minimalist and functional, with a focus on clean lines, simple shapes, and affordable materials. The brand also has a stronger online presence than Crate and Barrel, with a larger e-commerce platform and a more extensive social media presence.
What is Crate & Kids, and what products does it offer?
Crate & Kids is a children’s furniture and decor brand that was launched by Crate and Barrel in 2018. The brand offers a range of products for kids, including furniture, bedding, toys, and decorative accessories. Crate & Kids is designed to appeal to parents who are looking for high-quality, stylish products for their children’s rooms.
Crate & Kids products are designed to be both functional and fun, with a focus on safety, durability, and sustainability. The brand offers a range of products for different age groups, from nursery furniture and decor to big-kid beds and desks. Crate & Kids also offers a range of services, including design consultations and gift registries.
How does Crate and Barrel approach sustainability and social responsibility?
Crate and Barrel has made a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, with a focus on reducing its environmental impact and promoting fair labor practices. The company has implemented a number of initiatives, including a recycling program, energy-efficient lighting, and sustainable sourcing practices.
Crate and Barrel also partners with a number of organizations to support social and environmental causes. For example, the company has partnered with the non-profit organization, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, to support children’s health and wellness initiatives. Crate and Barrel also offers a range of eco-friendly products, including sustainable furniture, organic bedding, and recycled glass decor.
What is the future of Crate and Barrel, and how is the company evolving?
Crate and Barrel is continuing to evolve and adapt to changing consumer preferences and market trends. The company is investing in e-commerce and digital marketing, with a focus on creating a seamless online shopping experience for customers. Crate and Barrel is also expanding its services, including design consultations, gift registries, and in-home delivery and assembly.
In addition, Crate and Barrel is continuing to launch new brands and products, including a range of sustainable and eco-friendly products. The company is also exploring new retail formats, including smaller stores and pop-up shops. Overall, Crate and Barrel is committed to staying ahead of the curve and providing customers with the best possible shopping experience.