Add-on·Consumer/Consumer Products·May 21, 2026
Authentic Brands Group buys denim brand Lee
The transaction moves the jeanswear label from Kontoor Brands to a global brand and entertainment platform in a deal valued at up to $1B.
Takeaways
- Lee is a denim brand.
- Authentic Brands Group is acquiring Lee.
- Disclosed scale includes up to $1B.
BuyerAuthentic Brands Group
TargetLee
SellerKontoor Brands
TypeAdd-on
IndustryConsumer
Sub-sectorConsumer Products
Authentic Brands Group agreed to acquire Lee, the denim and jeanswear brand, from Kontoor Brands in a transaction valued at up to $1 billion.
The acquisition adds another global lifestyle label to Authentic’s brand-management portfolio, which owns and manages consumer, entertainment and apparel brands across retail and licensing channels.
Kontoor Brands will retain Wrangler and continue focusing its portfolio around owned denim and apparel brands.
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