Frasers Group, the UK-based retail powerhouse behind names like Sports Direct and Flannels, has purchased a majority stake in The Webster, marking its formal entry into North American luxury retail. The deal is a strategic move designed to strengthen both companies’ global reach and digital capabilities, as well as to elevate the standards of high-end, multi-brand retail.
About The Webster: A U.S. Luxury Powerhouse
Founded in 2008 in South Beach, Miami, by Laure Hériard Dubreuil, The Webster quickly became one of the U.S.’s most influential luxury multi-brand concepts, curating over 100 leading brands including Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Saint Laurent, Celine, and more. Over the last decade, The Webster has expanded to 13 locations in major U.S. hubs, including New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta, Austin, and Las Vegas. The Webster prides itself on a highly curated luxury experience, blending immersive store design, exclusive collaborations, and a distinctive aesthetic.
Strategic Partnership: Preserving DNA While Driving Growth
Under the terms of the acquisition, Laure Hériard Dubreuil will retain a significant minority stake and continue to lead day-to-day operations, ensuring The Webster remains true to its creative roots.Dubreuil has stated that the move marks “the start of a new chapter” for the company.
She continued: “In almost two decades, The Webster has grown far beyond my wildest dreams from the locations we have opened to the amazing brand partnerships we have been able to create during my tenure.
“Since our first conversation, I knew that Michael and the Frasers Group team were completely aligned with our approach and would be the best partner to help take the business to the next level, bringing a renewed energy and digital innovation.”
Frasers intends to support The Webster as a standalone entity, bringing its financial strength, operational expertise, and proven e-commerce platforms to enhance digital reach and operational efficiency while preserving The Webster’s exclusive brand position.
Frasers Group’s Elevation Strategy
The acquisition is part of Frasers Group’s Elevation Strategy, focused on building the planet’s most admired and compelling brand ecosystem. The group has invested heavily in luxury—most recently through its Flannels division, which operates over 80 stores in the UK and Ireland. By integrating The Webster, Frasers aims to combine its scale and digital infrastructure with The Webster’s curation-led approach, further expanding both companies’ influence in the global luxury market.
Michael Murray, CEO of Frasers Group, stated:
“I’ve long admired what Laure has built with The Webster – a truly unique concept with flawless execution and exceptional brand partnerships,” Murray said. “With our financial strength, operational expertise, and proven digital capabilities, it’s a perfect partnership to support The Webster to fulfill its potential.”
Performance Highlights & Future Growth
The Webster has reported 10% revenue growth over recent years and continues to expand its footprint with stores in key U.S. cities. The new partnership is expected to drive further operational efficiencies, digital transformation, and market expansion.
Frasers Group’s entry into the U.S. comes during a period of strong revenue and strategic growth for The Webster, which plans more store openings, enhanced e-commerce platforms, and deeper integration with global luxury brands and designers.
Industry Impact and Market Reaction
The deal is attracting attention for its timing and scope. Industry analysts note that the acquisition comes as multi-brand luxury retail faces new challenges from shifting consumer preferences, increased competition, and the rise of omnichannel ecommerce.
Frasers Group CEO Michael Murray said the partnership represented a “new chapter for both brands, driven by collaboration, creativity and cultural relevance”.
“This partnership is founded on a shared belief in elevating retail through experience, creativity and culture,” he said.
Conclusion: Elevating U.S. Luxury Retail
By acquiring a majority stake in The Webster, Frasers Group is doubling down on luxury and global expansion, promising to blend operational excellence, digital power, and creativity. The deal preserves The Webster’s distinctive brand DNA, with founder Laure Hériard Dubreuil continuing her vision while gaining resources to scale.
Both companies expect to benefit from expanded market reach, enhanced customer experience, and the ability to weather an increasingly dynamic retail landscape.
