WHP Global Partners with I.T Group to Boost Marc Jacobs in Greater China
In a significant move to amplify the Marc Jacobs brand, WHP Global and G-III Apparel Group have joined forces with I.T Group, a prominent omnichannel fashion retailer in Greater China. This strategic partnership comes as part of a long-term licensing agreement to accelerate the brand's growth in a rapidly evolving retail landscape. For context, this agreement marks WHP Global and G-III's first international licensing deal since acquiring Marc Jacobs globally in September 2026.
Expansion Efforts and Market Insights
I.T Group, which has made waves in the fashion retail sector since its inception in Hong Kong in 1988, operates over 280 retail outlets and boasts a growing digital eCommerce platform. Their comprehensive experience in the local market aims to leverage Marc Jacobs' unique creative identity—one that resonates with consumers in the region—for broader brand visibility. As Sham Kar Wai, the Founder and Chairman of I.T Group puts it, "We see significant potential to accelerate the brand's growth through retail expansion and digital commerce, bringing Marc Jacobs to more consumers across Greater China."
The retailer's omnichannel platform will be pivotal as they plan to introduce standalone boutiques and shop-in-shop locations. Additionally, enhancing digital commerce and wholesale distribution channels are central to these growth strategies. This initiative effectively builds upon Marc Jacobs' already established footprint in Greater China, enhancing its accessibility to a wider audience.
A Promising Future for Marc Jacobs
According to Morris Goldfarb, the Chairman and CEO of G-III Apparel Group, the focus on China represents a vital investment in the future of the Marc Jacobs brand. "Our approach is to evaluate each market individually and implement the right resources to foster business growth," he noted. The confidence exhibited by G-III Apparel Group stems from I.T Group's proven capabilities in capturing the fashion market's attention, crucial for nurturing global brands that aspire to establish a stronghold in China.
Yehuda Shmidman, the Founder, Chairman, and CEO of WHP Global, emphasizes that the partnership with I.T Group is a significant milestone in their global growth strategy for Marc Jacobs. He affirms, "This is just the beginning," hinting at a forward-looking approach filled with expansive opportunities that lie ahead.
The Background of Key Players
- - WHP Global: A major player in brand management, WHP Global oversees a diverse portfolio that includes prominent names such as Vera Wang, rag & bone, and Toys