Gordon Brothers has acquired the global LK Bennett brand and related intellectual property assets from the joint administrators of LK Bennett Fashion Limited, positioning the British heritage label for a new growth phase under an asset-light model.
Founded in the 1990s by Linda Bennett, LK Bennett began with a single boutique in Wimbledon, London, and developed into a destination for elevated, wearable dressing across limited-edition ready-to-wear, signature shoes, handbags, and accessories. The brand is closely associated with “London luxury,” known for polished styling and craftsmanship, and Gordon Brothers is betting that heritage can be scaled with a refreshed commercial strategy.
Gordon Brothers said it will assess multiple go-to-market options, prioritizing deeper retailer relationships, expanded marketing initiatives, and a broader network of licensees and franchisees. The firm plans to transition LK Bennett toward an asset-light approach, leaning on licensing and partnership-driven expansion rather than owning and operating a heavy retail footprint, an approach it says has worked in its prior revitalization efforts, including Laura Ashley.
The acquisition adds to Gordon Brothers’ long-running brand investing activity. Since 2003, the firm has invested in and partnered with brands including Laura Ashley, Nicole Miller, Telefunken, and Rachel Zoe, with a focus on strengthening wholesale, retail, and e-commerce distribution through licensing, product development, and marketing investment.
KEY QUOTES
“LK Bennett is a beloved heritage brand with a reputation for impeccable craftsmanship and quality, and a distinctly British spirit. We are excited to add LK Bennett to our portfolio of brands and proud to steward the brand into the next phase of growth bringing LK Bennett’s modern luxury to both long-time followers and new customers from around the world.”
Tobias Nanda, Head of Brands, Gordon Brothers
“We are delighted to provide a solution to the Administrators that both ensures value to the estate and preserves the longevity of this iconic British brand. We believe the LK Bennett brand is capable of reinvigoration under a new asset-light model.”
Nimit Shah, Managing Director, EMEA, Gordon Brothers
