(Yicai Global) Sept. 1 -- Chinese leather product producer Guangdong Wanlima Industry Co. [SHE:300591] has agreed to kick off joint marketing and branding campaigns with Campomaggi & Caterina Lucchi SpA (C&C), an Italian maker and distributor of designer leather handbags and accessories.

The pair signed a memorandum of understanding on a two-year strategic partnership yesterday, Wanlima said. They will work together to drive brand and sales growth, the Chinese firm said.

C&C will introduce its Gabs brand to the Chinese market through collaboration with Wanlima, who will initially set up 10 Gabs stores in the country over 12 months. More Chinese cities will get Gabs shops after. China will import goods from C&C's European plants.

The Italian firm will provide Wanlima with information about the latest fashion and store design trends in Europe, as well as consulting services that will facilitate Wanlima's infiltration into European markets.

Through the deal, Wanlima aims to improve the efficiency of its business coverage of market segments with its own three brands and Gabs, in line with its multi-brand, multi-channel and product diversification strategy.