Guess announced on Wednesday that its co-founders, CEO Carlos Alberini and Reebok owner Authentic Brands, have reached an agreement to take the company private in a US $ 1.4 billion deal that includes debt.
As part of the deal, Maurice and Paul Marciano and Alberini will partner with Authentic Brands, which will acquire 51% of Guess’ intellectual property, while existing shareholders will retain the remainder.
The move follows a wave of consolidation in the apparel sector, including 3G Capital’s plan to take Skechers private, Dick’s Sporting Goods’ deal to buy Foot Locker, and Authentic Brands’ purchase of Dockers from Levi Strauss earlier this year.
Guess said going private would give it greater flexibility to manage challenges in the retail environment and pursue a longer-term strategy. Before the transaction, the founders and Alberini together held about 40.18% of the company, with Paul Marciano owning 28%, according to LSEG data.
A special committee was established to assess the company’s alternatives after it received a US $ 13 per share offer from WHP Global in March. After considering a number of options, the committee’s chairman, Alex Yemenidjian, stated that the deal with Authentic Brands and current shareholders was the best course of action.
The deal is expected to close in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2026, pending regulatory approvals.
