GUESS ANNOUNCED WEDNESDAY THAT IT WILL BE TAKEN PRIVATE IN A $1.4 BILLION DEAL INVOLVING ITS CO-FOUNDERS, CEO, AND AUTHENTIC BRANDS, THE COMPANY THAT OWNS REEBOK. (PHOTO).

 Guess to be taken private in $1.4 billion transaction with Authentic Brands and company leadership

Guess announced Wednesday that it will be taken private in a $1.4 billion deal involving its co-founders, CEO, and Authentic Brands, the company that owns Reebok. 

The agreement includes the acquisition of 51% of Guess’ intellectual property by Authentic Brands, while existing shareholders will retain the remainder.

Shareholders will receive $16.75 per share in cash, a 26% premium over the stock’s previous close. Guess shares jumped nearly 26% in early trading following the announcement, after having lost roughly 38% over the past year amid economic uncertainty and stiff competition in the apparel market. The move aligns with broader consolidation in the industry, including Skechers going private, Dick’s Sporting Goods’ acquisition of Foot Locker, and Authentic Brands’ purchase of Dockers earlier this year.

The company said going private will allow it to pursue a longer-term strategy and navigate a challenging operating environment with greater flexibility. Before the deal, the co-founders and CEO owned roughly 40% of the company, with Paul Marciano holding 28%. Earlier this year, Guess had received a $13-per-share proposal from WHP Global, which was reviewed by a special committee. The committee determined that the deal with Authentic Brands and existing shareholders offered the best path forward.