New York-based Marquee Brands, the owner of a diverse portfolio of 17 global brands, including Ben Sherman, has acquired Laura Ashley from Gordon Brothers, marking a significant milestone in the British heritage brand’s evolution.
The acquisition retains Laura Ashley’s UK-based team and integrates the brand into Marquee Brands’ strategy to expand its global footprint.
Marquee Brands will establish its first European headquarters in London, elevating the portfolio’s retail value to an impressive $4 billion (£3.23 billion).
Heath Golden, CEO of Marquee Brands, expressed excitement about the brand’s potential:
“Laura Ashley’s licensed business model and robust group of high-quality partners make it a seamless addition. With the existing UK team in place, we’re ready to leverage the brand’s seven-decade legacy to unlock its future as a full lifestyle brand, offering innovative products, collaborations, and multi-generational engagement worldwide.”
Laura Ashley was rescued from administration in 2020 by Gordon Brothers, who revitalized the brand with a scalable licensing model and global e-commerce presence.
Tobias Nanda, head of brand at Gordon Brothers, remarked:
“We are proud of Laura Ashley’s growth under Carolyn D’Angelo’s leadership and confident in its continued global expansion under Marquee Brands.”
The acquisition aligns with Marquee Brands’ focus on driving innovation and diversification, supported by recent executive team expansions, including roles in commercial growth, finance, business development, and marketing.
Laura Ashley is set to broaden its global presence while maintaining its British heritage. With plans for new platforms, collaborations, and market engagement, the brand aims to resonate with audiences across generations and regions.
In line with its revival, Laura Ashley relaunched its fashion collection in April 2024, partnering with Next to debut a fresh range, further cementing its place in the modern retail landscape.
This acquisition marks a new chapter for Laura Ashley, positioning it for long-term growth as a global lifestyle powerhouse.
