WHP Global and G-III Complete $925 Million Acquisition of Marc Jacobs

Bernard Arnault described Marc Jacobs as 'a designer of rare creativity and unique vision' when the deal was announced, underscoring LVMH's high regard for the brand even as ownership shifts.
LVMH acquired Marc Jacobs in 1997, and the sale closes nearly three decades of ownership, marking the end of that era for the house.
The operating business acquired by G-III includes more than 100 stores and is centered in the United States and Europe, indicating the geographic focus of the new ownership structure.
G-III, with the Marc Jacobs deal, now owns ten brands, expanding its brand portfolio alongside WHP Global.
WHP Global and G-III Apparel Group have completed their $925 million acquisition of Marc Jacobs from LVMH, ending nearly three decades of ownership by the luxury conglomerate. The two companies formed a 50/50 joint venture to co-own the brand's intellectual property, with WHP leading brand licensing while G-III operates wholesale, retail, and e-commerce operations Fashion Network.
Marc Jacobs, the founder and creative director, will remain in his role to ensure the brand's creative vision continues. The deal positions Marc Jacobs for expanded global growth, with both partners combining their expertise to accelerate the brand's reach in new markets News Observer.
LVMH acquired Marc Jacobs in 1997, holding the brand through decades of growth and evolution. When LVMH announced the deal, luxury magnate Bernard Arnault called Marc Jacobs 'a designer of rare creativity and unique vision,' highlighting the brand's significance even as ownership changed hands Fashion Network.
The sale marks a major shift in the designer brand landscape. Marc Jacobs transitions from LVMH's portfolio to a partnership model that gives each company equal stake in the iconic American designer brand News Observer.
Under the new structure, WHP Global takes charge of brand licensing and strategy, while G-III Apparel Group handles the day-to-day business. G-III operates more than 100 stores and manages wholesale, retail, and e-commerce channels across the United States and Europe Fashion Network.
The partnership combines WHP's expertise in brand management with G-III's operational scale. This structure allows the companies to accelerate growth worldwide while maintaining focused geographic priorities in developed markets News Observer.
The Marc Jacobs acquisition marks a significant expansion for G-III Apparel Group. The deal brings G-III's brand portfolio to ten labels, strengthening its position as a major player in designer apparel and expanding its reach across multiple market segments News Observer.
Both companies describe the joint venture as a powerful platform for growth. Marc Jacobs' creative continuity under founder Marc Jacobs, combined with the operational strength of both partners, positions the brand to compete globally and reach new customer bases Fashion Network.
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