NEW
YORK, July 10, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- WSG Brands
(www.wsgbrands.com) proudly announces the acquisition of Von Dutch
(vondutch.com), the legendary Hollywood fashion and lifestyle brand that
changed pop culture forever with its bold presence and iconic
styles. Under its new ownership, Von Dutch will be headed by
longtime industry veterans Jack
Cheika and Marc Benitez,
WSG's CEO and COO. With this acquisition, WSG Brands is reigniting
the flames of Von Dutch's rebellious spirit and inspiring a new
generation to embrace their individuality with pride. Von Dutch
boasts a significant international presence in regions including
the USA, Europe, Indonesia, Korea, Brazil, Argentina, Australia, and New
Zealand, and Von Dutch will continue to expand globally
under WSG's new ownership.
WSG Brands, a newly formed brand management firm with modern day
strategies on licensing, is set to elevate Von Dutch to new
heights, honoring its seminal history while paving a new path
forward for the brand into a new era. Starting with a U.S-centric
focus and prioritizing brand integrity, sustainability, and
long-term vision, WSG will ensure that each Von Dutch piece -- from
classic trucker hats to its spirited, rebellious ready-to-wear --
will stay true to the authenticity and heritage of Von Dutch as a
symbol of dynamic self-expression and bold individuality.
As part of its refocused investment, former owners Groupe Royer
and its subsidiary Royer Brands International (RBI), advised by
Brandthinktank Group, have transferred ownership of the iconic
American brand Von Dutch to WSG as of June
2024.
"Only WSG Brands had both the cultural understanding of Von
Dutch and the ambition and resources mix required to further deploy
the brand going forward", stated Jacques Royer, Executive chairman of Groupe
Royer. Olivier Mercier, Managing
Director of RBI Sàrl, added, "We are delighted to see this
legendary American name, to which we imbued a touch of French
fashion, land in the right hands."
Marc Benitez, COO of WSG Brands,
brings over 25 years of diverse industry experience, having held
influential roles at ABG, CAA-GBG, Kenneth
Cole, and Coach. With a proven track record of managing
hundreds of millions in royalty revenue, Benitez's expertise will
be instrumental in driving Von Dutch's growth.
In a joint statement from Benitez and
Cheika: "We are excited to channel Von Dutch's
storied legacy, led for several years by Groupe Royer and now by
WSG, into innovative designs that resonate with today's
fashion-forward consumers. Our vision is to make Von Dutch not just
a brand, but a movement that celebrates individuality and bold
expression globally."
Jack Cheika, CEO and Founder of
WSG Brands, is a seasoned expert in product and branding, retail
and licensing, and identifying white space opportunities. Cheika's
deep understanding of the industry and his unique perspective on
creating memorable brand identities will be pivotal in Von Dutch's
evolution. WSG Brands specializes in acquiring and managing a
diverse portfolio of iconic brands, preserving their legacy while
driving innovation, bridging brands to new audiences, and expanding
their reach.
Academie NBD LLC/New Castle Brands LLC, a New Jersey-based advisory and consulting firm
specializing in brand licensing, development, IP consultation, and
acquisitions, together with Brandthinktank, were the co-originators
of the Von Dutch transaction between White Space Group and Groupe
Royer.
With this acquisition, WSG Brands welcomes fans and audiences
around the world to celebrate Von Dutch's historic legacy as it
steps into a powerful new era and look forward to announcing
exciting brand updates soon.
For more information or media inquires, please contact Chapter
2:
Clara Jeon |
clara@chapter2agency.com, Danielle Dawson
| danielle@chapter2agency.com
About WSG Brands
WSG Brands is a dynamic company specializing in acquiring and
managing a diverse portfolio of iconic and well-known brands. With
a commitment to preserving brand legacy while driving innovation,
WSG Brands works to expand the reach and create new growth
opportunities across various industries.
About Von Dutch: Von Dutch, a brand synonymous with
rebellious spirit and innovative fashion, has left an indelible
mark on the global fashion industry since its inception in the
early 2000s. Renowned for its edgy designs and iconic trucker hats,
Von Dutch became a cultural phenomenon, embraced by celebrities and
trendsetters alike. Now under the ownership of WSG (White Space
Group), the brand continues to push the boundaries of contemporary
streetwear, infusing its rich heritage with modern influences.
WSG's stewardship promises to uphold Von Dutch's legacy of bold
creativity and authenticity, ensuring the brand remains a staple in
fashion-forward wardrobes worldwide.
About Group Royer: Created almost 80 years ago in
Fougères (France) by Louis Royer, the family-owned group has become a
Global player on the international footwear, apparel and
accessories manufacturing and distribution market, specifically
through its Europe, APAC and
India subsidiary platforms, for
brands under licensing or distribution agreements such as New
Balance (until 2020), Caterpillar, Umbro, etc. and its own brands
such as Kickers, the famous children and adults footwear.
About Academie NBD LLC/New Castle Brands LLC
Academie NBD LLC/New Castle Brands LLC is a New Jersey-based advisory and consulting firm
specializing in brand licensing, development, IP consultation, and
acquisitions. The firm played a key role in orchestrating the Von
Dutch transaction between White Space Group and Groupe Royer.
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SOURCE WSG Brands