G-III, WHP Global to Form $850M JV Owning Marc Jacobs IP
G-III Apparel Group and WHP Global will form a 50/50 JV owning Marc Jacobs’ intellectual property, while G-III acquires the brand’s operating business under license and assumes direct-to-consumer operations. Partners will raise up to $850 million to fund the deal, targeting WHP’s portfolio retail sales above $9.5 billion.
1. Joint Venture Formation
G-III Apparel Group and WHP Global will establish a 50/50 joint venture to hold all intellectual property rights for the Marc Jacobs brand. This structure separates brand ownership from operational responsibilities, aligning licensing expertise with manufacturing and distribution capabilities.
2. Acquisition of Brand Operations
Under the agreement, G-III will acquire Marc Jacobs’ operating business and enter into a long-term licensing arrangement. The company will also take on global direct-to-consumer and wholesale activities, integrating these channels into its existing apparel network.
3. Financing and Growth Projections
To fund the acquisition, G-III and WHP are raising up to $850 million in capital. Post-transaction, WHP’s combined fashion portfolio is expected to exceed $9.5 billion in annual retail sales, positioning the venture for accelerated market penetration.
4. Marc Jacobs’ Continued Leadership
Marc Jacobs will remain as founder and creative director, overseeing runway collections and brand aesthetics. His ongoing role is intended to preserve creative continuity and brand equity during the ownership transition.