WSG Brands, a newly formed brand management firm with modern licensing strategies, is set to elevate Von Dutch to new heights, honoring its seminal history and paving the way for the brand to move forward into a new era. Beginning with a U.S.-centric approach and prioritizing brand integrity, sustainability, and long-term vision, WSG will ensure that every Von Dutch piece—from classic trucker caps to its rebellious and energetic ready-to-wear collection—stays true to Von Dutch’s authenticity and heritage as a symbol of dynamic self-expression and bold individuality.
As part of their refocused investment, former owners Groupe Royer and its subsidiary Royer Brands International (RBI), advised by Brandthinktank Group, have transferred ownership of the iconic American brand Von Dutch to WSG effective June 2024.
WSG Brands announces the acquisition of iconic fashion brand Von Dutch. Under the leadership of CEO Jack Cheika and COO Marc Benitez, WSG aims to rekindle Von Dutch’s rebellious spirit and expand its global presence. The acquisition of Groupe Royer, advised by Brandthinktank, marks a new era focused on sustainability and bold self-expression for the brand.
“Only WSG Brands had both the cultural understanding of Von Dutch and the ambition and combination of resources required to continue to implement the brand into the future,” he said. Jacques Royer, CEO of the Royer Group. Olivier Mercier, CEO of RBI Sàrl“We are delighted to see this legendary American name, to which we have added a touch of French fashion, end up in the right hands,” he added.
Marc Benitez, COO of WSG Brands, brings more than 25 years of experience across a variety of industries, having held influential roles at ABG, CAA-GBG, Kenneth Cole and Coach. With a proven track record managing hundreds of millions of dollars in royalty revenue, Benitez’s experience will be instrumental in driving Von Dutch’s growth.
In a joint statement from Benitez and Cheika: “We are excited to channel Von Dutch's historic legacy, led for several years by Groupe Royer and now by WSG, into innovative designs that resonate with today's fashion consumers. Our vision is to make Von Dutch not just a brand, but a movement that celebrates individuality and bold expression globally.”
Jack Cheika, CEO and Founder of WSG Brands, is an expert in product and brand development, retail and licensing, as well as identifying white space opportunities. Cheika’s deep industry knowledge and unique perspective on creating memorable brand identities will be instrumental in the evolution of Von Dutch. WSG Brands specializes in acquiring and managing a diverse portfolio of iconic brands, preserving their legacy while driving innovation, bringing brands to new audiences and expanding their reach.
Academie NBD LLC/New Castle Brands LLC, a New Jersey-based advisory and consulting firm specializing in brand licensing, development, intellectual property consulting and acquisitions, together with Brandthinktank, were the co-originators of the Von Dutch transaction between White Space Group and Groupe Royer.
With this acquisition, WSG Brands welcomes fans and audiences around the world to celebrate Von Dutch’s storied legacy as it enters a powerful new era and looks forward to announcing exciting brand updates soon.
Note: The content of this press release has not been edited by Fibre2Fashion staff.
Fibre2Fashion (RM) Press Desk
