American Exchange Group announced the acquisition of the intellectual property assets of Allbirds in partnership with WSG Brands.
Allbirds is a globally recognized lifestyle and footwear brand known for redefining everyday essentials and building strong consumer loyalty. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
As co-owners of the brand, WSG Brands will serve as a key operating and growth partner, while American Exchange Group will design and manufacture footwear for the brand.
The companies said they plan to strengthen Allbirds’ existing business while pursuing new opportunities across product categories, retail distribution, licensing, and international markets.
The transaction was completed in partnership with a consortium of strategic investors, manufacturers, and operating partners aligned with the long-term expansion of the Allbirds brand.
Under the new ownership group, Allbirds is expected to use an asset-light licensing model to support growth across new product categories, retail channels, and global markets.
WSG Brands recently acquired Von Dutch and used a licensing-led growth strategy to expand distribution, strengthen retail partnerships, enter new categories, and accelerate international expansion.
American Exchange Group is a global fashion accessory design, manufacturing, and distribution company. WSG Brands is a brand management and licensing platform focused on growing consumer brands.
Additional announcements related to partnerships, licensing initiatives, and international expansion plans are expected in the coming months.
KEY QUOTES:
“This acquisition represents an exciting milestone for American Exchange Group and reflects our continued focus on partnering with brands that have strong consumer relevance, differentiated positioning, and significant long-term growth potential. Allbirds has built a globally recognized brand by bringing a distinct point of view to the market and creating a meaningful connection with consumers around the world. Together with WSG Brands, whose proven track record in brand expansion and licensing makes them an exceptional partner, we see a compelling opportunity to build on that foundation and unlock the brand’s next phase of growth. By combining AEG’s product development, sourcing, and manufacturing capabilities with WSG’s expertise in brand management and market expansion, we intend to thoughtfully extend Allbirds into new categories, channels, and international markets while preserving the authenticity and values that have made the brand so distinctive.”
Alen Mamrout, Chief Executive Officer of American Exchange Group
“We believe Allbirds represents one of the most compelling brand opportunities in the market today. The brand has built meaningful awareness and consumer affinity around the world. Our vision is to preserve what consumers love about Allbirds while expanding its reach into new categories, markets, and partnerships. Having successfully executed this strategy with Von Dutch, we are excited to begin the next chapter of growth alongside American Exchange Group.”
Jack Cheika, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of WSG Brands
