Frasers Group is said to be in talks with Authentic Brands Group (ABG) about a potential partnership.
The move could see the Sports Direct owner become the operating partner in the UK and Europe for brands in Authentic’s portfolio including Reebok, Hunter, Forever 21 and Juicy Couture, Drapers reported.
ABG owns over 50 global brands including David Beckham, Hunter, Ted Baker, Reebok and Forever 21, which are licensed out to different suppliers by market or category.
The title has spoken to multiple sources who confirmed the talks have taken place, though some cautioned that negotiations between Frasers and ABG may not necessarily to lead to an agreement.
Back in May, Frasers Group emerged as the frontrunner to take over Ted Baker’s British operations but a deal has yet to be reached.
Ted Baker was acquired by Authentic in 2022 for £211m. At the time, the firm said it planned to leverage its network of experts and operating partners to convert the fashion retailer to a licensed business model.
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