LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, one of the industry's most esteemed conglomerates, announced that it will acquire a 60% majority stake in Off-White™, the influential fashion label founded by Virgil Abloh in 2012. This acquisition signifies a major shift for LVMH and Off-White, providing a springboard for the brand's continued evolution and diversification.
The deal, expected to close within 60 days pending regulatory approval, will see LVMH owning a substantial interest in the Off-White trademark. Mr. Abloh retains 40% ownership while continuing to hold his role as the creative director. This move secures financial enrichment and strategic resources for Off-White, granting them access to LVMH’s extensive expertise in manufacturing, distribution, and global marketing.
Farfetch and New Guards Group, which previously held licensing agreements with Off-White, will continue their collaborations under the new ownership structure.
Virgil Abloh initially founded Off-White as a disruptive force in the fashion industry, blurring the lines between luxury and streetwear. His unique vision and innovative designs have revolutionized traditional aesthetics, garnering a dedicated following among millennials and influencing countless other brands. Abloh’s background as a trained architect and his previous experiences, including an internship at Fendi alongside Kanye West, have infused Off-White’s designs with a distinctive blend of classical art and youth culture.
The strategic investment aligns with LVMH’s broader objectives of diversifying its portfolio and deepening its engagement with younger, more diverse demographics. Virgil Abloh's role within LVMH—already significant as the artistic director of Louis Vuitton Menswear—will be further expanded, allowing him to influence the conglomerate’s trajectory across various domains, from fashion to lifestyle and beyond.
The partnership promises to bolster Off-White’s market recognition and expand its product lines. LVMH’s exceptional reach and resources will enable Off-White to tap into new categories, potentially including hospitality, home goods, and personal care. The brand’s existing collaborations, such as the successful cologne "Elevator Music," illustrate the promising future for multi-line luxury products under Abloh's creative direction.
