Marquee Brands acquires Body Glove

US-based Marquee Brands, which owns Ben Sherman, has acquired outdoor sports brand Body Glove and its related intellectual property assets.

Marquee Brands, which specialises in buying, licensing and developing brands with funding from asset management firm Neuberger Berman has acquired a majority stake in the Californian surf brand for an undisclosed sum.

Established in 1953 by twin brothers Bob and Bill Meistrell, Body Glove started as a pioneer in wetsuit technology and has grown into a staple for water sports fans.

The Meistrell family will retain a minority interest in the Body Glove brand and will remain partners in the future growth of the brand, a statement from Marquee Brands confirmed. In addition to its New York headquarters and London design office, Marquee Brands will also be opening a west coast office to support the Body Glove brand management and marketing teams.

“Adding to Marquee's portfolio of heritage brands, Body Glove represents what great brands are all about. While the brand is already ubiquitous and wildly successful, the opportunity to further expand its global footprint is at the core of our focus,” said Michael DeVirgilio, president of Marquee Brands. “There is tremendous growth ahead for Body Glove to develop new product categories that cater to a consumer that embraces life, the outdoors and an active lifestyle.”

Body Glove is the third investment for Marquee Brands, following its acquisition of Italian luxury brand Bruno Magli and British fashion brand Ben Sherman, and marks the group's first acquisition in the active and outdoor sector.

Cory M. Baker, chief operating officer of Marquee Brands, added: “Body Glove presents us with both the opportunity to, and responsibility for, Marquee to be stewards for the future of this American treasure. Whether it's the California vibe or the excitement of outdoor sports, Body Glove has never been beholden to styles and trends and remains an evergreen brand with its best years ahead.”