Core Insights - Authentic Brands Group (ABG) is in the process of acquiring a controlling ownership interest in the intellectual property of retailer Guess? [5][6] - The deal is structured as a 50/50 joint venture in intellectual property, with significant growth opportunities identified globally [3][5] - The acquisition will elevate Guess? to become ABG's second-largest brand, contributing to an estimated total portfolio-wide annual retail sales of $38 billion [5][11] Company Structure and Operations - Under the transaction, ABG will hold a 51% stake in a new entity that will own and license most of Guess?'s intellectual property, while the remaining 49% will be owned by Guess? Co-Founders and CEO [6][7] - The operating entity of Guess? will be taken private and managed by the current leadership team, maintaining its existing structure [7] - Guess? operates in approximately 100 countries with around 1,600 stores globally, over 1,000 of which are directly managed [7] Strategic Partnerships and Growth - ABG has been expanding rapidly through various licensing deals and cross-brand promotions, leveraging partnerships with influencers like David Beckham [8][10] - New strategic operating partners have been announced for Forever 21, enhancing its U.S. e-commerce and wholesale operations [9] - ABG has successfully doubled sales for the Reebok brand since its acquisition from Adidas in 2022, showcasing its effective brand management strategy [10][11] Portfolio Overview - ABG's portfolio includes over 50 global brands, generating approximately $32 billion in annual retail sales across 150 countries [11][12] - Notable brands under ABG include Champion, Nautica, Eddie Bauer, and Juicy Couture, among others [12]