By Nick Georgandis
Maria Sharapova has never been one to shy away from a marketing campaign, and the shrewd business practices have led her to being the most well-paid female athlete in the world year after year.
Sharapova struck again in the consumer world on Thursday when New York-based department store Henri Bendel announced a new collection of accessories in collaboration with the Russian's candy brand Sugarpova.
The collection includes pendants, purses, and other small items featuring Sugarpova's signature red lips emblem.
"Having the Sugarpova brand showcased and having Ms. Sharapova involved in the launch is brilliant," said Ric Peralta, CEO of ATTIK, the marketing team behind the partnership.
"The line extension to Ms. Sharapova's candy brand is a natural fit with the young women who make up the Henri Bendel audience."
Sharapova herself will be on hand for the line's launch at its New York flagship store on Aug. 20, six days before the start of the 2013 US Open.