Heineken And KILLSPENCER Debut Signature Collaborative Backpack For 2013 "#Heineken100" Program

Los Angeles-Based Designer and International Brewer Create Multifunctional Daypack

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Sep 26, 2013, 12:30 ET

NEW YORK, Sept. 26, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Heineken®, the world's most international brewer, today debuted a collaborative bag with accessories brand KILLSPENCER for the #Heineken100 program -- an exclusive seeding program that celebrates Heineken's "Man of the World." Developed by the two brands and manned by #Heineken100 Creative Director, Chris Gibbs, the black leather, multipurpose daypack includes a Swiss-made Riri Antique Silver zipper, 1500 lb MIL-SPEC webbing, foam padded leather straps, MIL-SPEC black metal tabler buckles and a leather handle -- making the #Heineken100 X KILLSPENCER daypack an ideal accessory for daily essentials.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130926/NY87289)

"This is Heineken's first time working with KILLSPENCER for the #Heineken100 program, and we are impressed with the ingenuity that KILLSPENCER brings to its approach," said Belen Pamukoff, Brand Director of Marketing, HEINEKEN USA. "This daypack will undoubtedly serve as a vital accessory for our 'Man of the World' during his travels."

"It's always exciting to see an idea come to life," said #Heineken100 Creative Director and owner of Union LA, Chris Gibbs. "When first deciding on what products to offer our recipients for this year's program, I wanted to work with a brand that not only provided a high-quality product, but like Heineken, I sought a brand that constantly looks for innovative ways to improve their consumer's experience. KILLSPENCER encapsulates this entirely."

Announced earlier this year as the creative director for the 2013 #Heineken100 program, this is the second partnership under Gibbs' direction. Prior to the debut of the #Heineken100 X KILLSPENCER daypack, designer Mark McNairy and Heineken debuted two collaborative shoes in September 2013, marking the first of four collaborative efforts for this year's #Heineken100 program. Heineken plans to debut two additional projects during the remainder of the year: one with Japanese denim brand Neighborhood; and one with iconic artist Eric Haze.

"Heineken and Chris Gibbs have provided me an opportunity like no other," said KILLSPENCER owner, Spencer Nikosey. "This partnership will not only serve as a catalyst to gaining global exposure for the brand, but will serve as a unique way for me to showcase the quality of the product to an exclusive array of tastemakers and leaders within the fashion and entertainment industry."

In its fourth year, the #Heineken100 influencer program identifies and celebrates various tastemakers across the nation that represent Heineken's "Man of the World." The collaborative products are exclusively available to the 100 individuals on the #Heineken100 list. Previous collaborations include: Mark McNairy saddle shoes, a Public School camouflage duffle bag, a Tsovet watch, Android Homme sneakers, and tote bags designed by fashion duo Dee & Ricky.

Link to view video footage of Chris Gibbs and KILLSPENCER discussing the #Heineken100 collaborative backpack: https://vimeo.com/75426092

About HEINEKEN USA
HEINEKEN USA Inc., the nation's leading upscale beer importer, is a subsidiary of Heineken International BV, the world's most international brewer. European brands imported into the U.S. include Heineken Lager, the world's most international beer brand, Heineken Light, Amstel Light, Newcastle Brown Ale, and Strongbow cider. HEINEKEN USA also imports the Dos Equis portfolio, Tecate portfolio, Sol, Indio, Carta Blanca and Bohemia brands from Mexico. For a safe ride home, download the HEINEKEN USA-sponsored Taxi Magic™ application from your smartphone at taximagic.heineken.com

About KILLSPENCER
KILLSPENCER started as a personal project to a locally craft the perfect sustainable and waterproof backpack and quickly blossomed into a fulltime business. We are made in U.S.A., designing and manufacturing products out of our Silverlake Workshop. We are constantly on the search for innovative materials and processes weather new or historical and are dedicated to making products that will last the test of time.

About Union LA
Since Union opened its doors in New York in 1989, the shop has become the stuff of retail legend. The Los Angeles chapter, the only remaining door, continues this history by constantly pushing forward and paving a new direction for top tier retail in the US today. The concept is simple; walk the line between fashion and function, develop relationships with brands, bring exclusivity, knowledge and a great product assortment to customers. The store announces a website revamp featuring e-commerce that will bring its vision and product assortment to customers everywhere beginning October 15, 2010 at www.unionlosangeles.com.

SOURCE Heineken