Authentic Brands, Marciano Family Plan Takeover of Guess in $1.4B Deal

Guess Inc. is transitioning from a public to a private company through a strategic partnership with Authentic Brands Group (ABG) and key shareholders known as the Rolling Stockholders, including co-founders Maurice and Paul Marciano, Nicolai Marciano, and CEO Carlos Alberini. ABG will acquire a 51% stake in Guess's intellectual property, while the Rolling Stockholders will retain 49%, and current management will continue to run the operating company, which will be wholly owned by them. The deal values Guess at approximately $1.4 billion, including debt, and offers shareholders $16.75 per share in cash, representing a premium of about 73% over Guess's stock price before acquisition talks became public. This acquisition significantly expands ABG's portfolio, adding about $6 billion in retail sales and marking its second-largest brand acquisition after Reebok. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2026 and aims to leverage Guess's global presence to accelerate growth and expand into new categories and markets. Authentic Brands Group expressed strong confidence in Guess's heritage and potential, emphasizing plans to reactivate its archives and build on the brand's legacy.