Basicnet acquires historic American brand Woolrich
The BasicNet group, owner of the brands Kappa, Robe di Kappa, K-Way, Superga, Sebago, and Briko, has reached an agreement to acquire the Woolrich brand — a historic American label founded in 1830 — from L-Gam, an investment fund established in 2013 with support from the Royal Family of Liechtenstein and families from Europe, Asia, and the United States.
The deal has a total value of 90 million euros, CE Report quotes ANSA.
The acquisition, to be carried out through a company fully controlled by BasicNet, includes the rights to the Woolrich brand in Europe and 100% of Woolrich Europe, the company responsible for its distribution and retail operations. Woolrich Europe’s 2025 revenue is expected to reach around 90 million euros, with a total enterprise value of 90 million euros.
Part of the consideration — 40 million euros — will be paid through the transfer of 1.2 million BasicNet ordinary shares, valued at 10 euros each. The seller may receive an additional deferred payment based on certain performance and revenue targets achieved by the end of the 2026–2028 three-year period.
Founded in 1830 by John Rich in Pennsylvania, Woolrich is one of the oldest American manufacturers of wool fabrics and outdoor clothing. The company began by producing durable garments for hunters, loggers, and railroad workers, designed to withstand the harsh winters of the northeastern United States.
In 1850, Woolrich introduced the famous Buffalo Check pattern — the distinctive red-and-black checkered design that became a symbol of rugged authenticity. In 1970, responding to the needs of workers building oil pipelines in Alaska, Woolrich created the Arctic Parka, designed for extreme cold and destined to become an icon of winter fashion worldwide.
With this acquisition, BasicNet adds to its portfolio a heritage-rich brand, “aligned with the group’s values of authenticity, iconicity, and cultural impact.” Woolrich’s key markets — particularly Italy and Europe — overlap with those where BasicNet already has a strong presence, creating the ideal conditions for a brand relaunch.
