French luxury conglomerate LVMH, under the leadership of Bernard Arnault, is currently engaged in confidential discussions with multiple potential buyers regarding the sale of its fashion label Marc Jacobs, Reuters reports.
Among the interested parties are Authentic Brands Group, which owns Reebok, and WHP Global, though these companies have remained tight-lipped on the ongoing talks. Additionally, Bluestar Alliance, known for owning Brookstone, has emerged as another contender to acquire the Marc Jacobs brand. According to the Wall Street Journal, the label’s valuation could reach around $1 bn.
Neither LVMH, Marc Jacobs, nor Bluestar Alliance immediately responded to requests for comment following the Wall Street Journal’s report.
Earlier in 2024, Bloomberg had reported that LVMH was considering various strategic options for the label with the help of advisers, following expressions of interest from potential buyers. At that time, LVMH denied those reports.
About the Brand
Founded in 1984 by American designer Marc Jacobs, the brand is celebrated for its distinctive, daring designs that seamlessly combine elements of high fashion with streetwear. In 1997, LVMH appointed Jacobs as the head of Louis Vuitton and acquired a stake in his eponymous label. According to the Journal, a deal could be reached soon if negotiations proceed smoothly.
This potential sale fits within LVMH’s broader strategy of refining its brand portfolio. In 2023, the group divested the Off-White fashion label, originally created by the late Virgil Abloh in 2012, selling it to New York-based Bluestar Alliance for an undisclosed amount.
Earlier Developments
Earlier this year, Stella McCartney repurchased the minority stake held by LVMH in her brand, five years after the group had initially acquired it. Despite the stake sale, McCartney will continue to advise LVMH’s leadership on sustainability issues, reflecting her commitment to ethical fashion, she is known for avoiding leather and fur in her designs.
The luxury retail sector in Europe has witnessed significant consolidation recently. For example, Prada acquired Versace from Capri Holdings earlier this year in a $1.4 bn transaction, uniting two prominent Italian fashion houses.
LVMH’s second-quarter results, which include sales from luxury staples such as Louis Vuitton handbags, Dior apparel, and Moët & Chandon champagne, fell just short of analysts’ forecasts. However, the company’s shares experienced a boost as investors noted emerging signs of recovery in the important Chinese market.
Deutsche Bank analyst Adam Cochrane described the quarterly results as not «stellar,» but identified some «glimmers of hope» for the brand’s outlook.
French luxury companies continue to face persistent market challenges, including economic slowdowns and the impact of potential U.S. import tariffs, which have added complexity to their global operations.
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