• March 8, 2010

Payless ShoeSource is dipping its toe into the beauty business, and plans to launch a line of new beauty and bodycare products in about 1,500 of its stores this fall.

The Topeka, Kan.-based retailer says it has inked a multi-year deal with Maesa Group, a beauty company, to create products under two brand names: Zoe & Zac and Unforgettable Moments. In addition to lotions, creams, butters and shower gels, the lines will also include fragrances, mists and color cosmetics, with prices starting at $2.99.

The company says it made the decision following the successful introduction last year of such accessories as jewelry, belts, sunglasses, hats, scarves, and gloves. "Our shoppers have responded very positively to our initiatives to go beyond footwear and democratize fashion and design in accessories as well," a company exec says in its release. "And this is one step further."--Sarah Mahoney