Home furnishings brand Laura Ashley acquired by Marquee Brands

Marquee Brands has acquired Laura Ashley, the iconic British home, lifestyle, and fashion brand, from investment firm Gordon Brothers. The deal positions Marquee to expand its global portfolio and establish its first European headquarters in London.

Transaction snapshot

• Deal value: N/A

• Deal multiples: N/A

• Deal type: Acquisition

• Investors: Marquee Brands

Laura Ashley, founded in 1953, is known for its heritage designs and wide product range. The brand’s U.K.-based team will remain intact under the new ownership, marking a key step in Marquee Brands’ European expansion strategy.

Gordon Brothers acquired Laura Ashley out of insolvency in 2020, after the brand’s collapse during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the past four years, Gordon Brothers revitalised the business, developing a licensing model and global e-commerce presence while partnering with Next to reintroduce Laura Ashley homeware in the U.K.

Marquee Brands, which manages 17 other labels including Ben Sherman, Martha Stewart, and BCBG, plans to fully integrate Laura Ashley into its licensed operating model. The brand currently spans over 200 lifestyle categories and works with more than 100 licensed partners across markets in the U.S., U.K., Asia, and beyond. Marquee intends to deepen Laura Ashley’s presence globally, with expansion plans targeting North America, Latin America, Asia Pacific, and EMEA regions.

Heath Golden, CEO of Marquee Brands, highlighted the seamless integration of Laura Ashley into the portfolio, citing its legacy, licensing model, and strong partnerships as key factors. Golden emphasised plans to drive the brand’s growth with new product innovations, collaborations, and multi-generational engagement.

Tobias Nanda, head of brands at Gordon Brothers, expressed pride in Laura Ashley’s turnaround under former president Carolyn D’Angelo’s leadership and confidence in Marquee Brands’ ability to continue its global growth.