The company originally produced corsets but expanded into underwear after identifying a shortage following World War II.
[6] During the 1990s, local manufacturers like Bendon faced increased competition from The Warehouse, DEKA and Farmers, which sold underwear imported from Asia at much cheaper prices.
In June, it announced it would end all operations within six months, with the loss of 400 jobs at Te Rapa and East Tāmaki.
[8] Eric Watson's Pacific Retail Group brought the company for NZ$58.7 million in 2002.
[10] Fashion designer Stella McCartney partnered with Bendon in 2007 to launch her own lingerie range in early 2008.
[19] Naked Brands was attempting to free up capital and divest of unprofitable bricks and mortar businesses.
[1] Under the deal, a $40 million loan was forgiven and Bendon had access to some cash and a $7 million loan facility at an interest rate below 5% pa.[1] Co-owner and chief executive Anna Johnson said the company would refocus on comfortable underwear and professional in-store fittings.
[20] The company also abandoned its association with supermodels and focused on promoting its products with a broader range of body types.
[21] Bendon Lingerie has supported Thread Together, a network of mobile charity clothing vans in New South Wales, alongside Retail Apparel Group, Commonwealth Bank and the Goodman Foundation.