LVMH has finalized the sale of the renowned fashion label Marc Jacobs to WHP Global, a significant move in the luxury sector. This transaction, reportedly valued at approximately $1 billion, introduces a new chapter for the Marc Jacobs brand under the joint ownership of WHP Global and G-III Apparel Group. The deal underscores a strategic realignment within LVMH's vast portfolio, focusing on core powerhouses, while providing Marc Jacobs with fresh opportunities for expansion and market reach.
WHP Global Takes Helm of Marc Jacobs as LVMH Divests
In a pivotal announcement made on a recent Thursday, WHP Global, a dynamic brand-management firm recognized for its stewardship of brands like Vera Wang and Rag & Bone, confirmed its acquisition of the luxury fashion house Marc Jacobs from LVMH. This strategic move enriches WHP Global's diverse portfolio, which also includes G-Star, Joe’s, and Express.
G-III Apparel Group, the owner of Donna Karan, is set to join WHP Global in this venture. The companies will form an equally owned joint venture to control Marc Jacobs' intellectual property. Concurrently, G-III will acquire the operational arm of Marc Jacobs from this new joint entity, entering into a long-term licensing agreement. This arrangement represents a substantial investment of around $500 million from G-III, placing the total valuation of the deal at approximately $1 billion.
Bernard Arnault, Chairman and CEO of LVMH, expressed his gratitude towards Marc Jacobs for his invaluable contributions over the past three decades, acknowledging his undeniable influence on the fashion world. Arnault conveyed confidence that this transition would unlock new avenues for Marc Jacobs, allowing the brand and its visionary designer to continue inspiring global consumers and creators.
The integration of Marc Jacobs into WHP Global's network is projected to elevate the firm's global retail sales beyond $9.5 billion. Marc Jacobs himself will maintain his critical role as founder and creative director, ensuring the brand's distinctive vision, runway collections, and signature fashion shows remain consistent. In an Instagram post, Jacobs lauded the genuine respect and appreciation shown by Yehuda Shmidman, WHP Global's Chairman and CEO, for the legacy they have cultivated. He also reaffirmed his profound gratitude to Bernard Arnault and the LVMH family for their unwavering support and trust throughout his distinguished career.
The Marc Jacobs brand, established in 1984 by Jacobs and Robert Duffy, saw LVMH acquire a majority stake in 1997, shortly after Jacobs became the first creative director for Louis Vuitton. Under LVMH's guardianship, Marc Jacobs evolved from a niche New York label into a globally recognized fashion powerhouse. The brand expanded its offerings over the years, including the introduction of a diffusion line, Marc by Marc Jacobs (discontinued in 2015), and the youth-oriented Heaven by Marc Jacobs in 2020, known for its Y2K-inspired aesthetic and popular collaborations.
This acquisition comes amidst a period of reassessment for luxury conglomerates. LVMH has recently divested other brands, including Donna Karan to G-III Apparel Group a decade prior, and more recently, its stake in Off-White and Stella McCartney, alongside the divestment of DFS's Greater China duty-free operations. These moves highlight a broader industry trend where companies optimize their brand portfolios to concentrate on their highest-performing assets and profit drivers, especially as the luxury sector navigates its recovery.
Marc Jacobs' recent cultural presence, including a documentary titled Marc by Sofia, directed by his longtime friend Sofia Coppola, and a cameo in The Devil Wears Prada 2, further cements his iconic status in fashion. The reported sale, which had been anticipated since July 2025, reflects the ongoing strategic realignments within the luxury market, signaling a future where brand longevity and global impact are paramount.
The acquisition of Marc Jacobs by WHP Global marks a significant event in the fashion industry, illustrating the dynamic nature of luxury brand ownership and strategic portfolio management. This move provides Marc Jacobs with a dedicated framework for renewed growth and expansion, while allowing LVMH to streamline its extensive holdings. It underscores the importance of both financial acumen and creative continuity in sustaining a brand's legacy and relevance in an ever-evolving global market. For consumers and industry observers alike, it will be fascinating to witness how this new partnership propels Marc Jacobs into its next chapter of innovation and influence.