Vera Bradley Inc. has extended the expiration date for its shareholder rights plan, a defensive stand against a potential hostile takeover.

The one-year rights plan, a move commonly referred to as a “poison pill,” was set to expire today. The end date has been extended to Oct. 11, 2026, the Fort Wayne-based company announced Friday.

“All other terms and conditions of the rights plan, which was adopted to protect shareholders’ interests and maximize value for all shareholders, remain unchanged,” officials said in a news release.

Vera Bradley designs, makes and sells women’s handbags, luggage and accessories.

The company’s floral, quilted cotton bags were so popular with shoppers that its share price reached $52.36 in May 2011, slightly more than six months after the company went public.

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