French Connection partners with G-III Apparel to accelerate North American expansion

French Connection has today announced a long-term licensing agreement with US fashion firm G-III Apparel Group to develop and distribute menswear, womenswear and accessories across North America.

G-III Apparel owns brands including DKNY, Donna Karan, Karl Lagerfeld and Vilebrequin, and licenses over 20 names in global fashion, such as Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Levi’s, Champion and Converse. The new agreement with French Connection takes effect as of 1 February 2026.

The partnership represents a key milestone for the brand since it was acquired by MIP Holdings, owned by Apinder Singh Ghura, for £29 million in November 2021, “marking a strategic move to accelerate international expansion” while leveraging G-III’s established retail infrastructure and market expertise in the US and Canada.

The deal signals a new phase for the London-founded brand “with global ambitions”, opting for a capital efficient licensing model rather than direct market entry, and aligning with one of the most scaled apparel operators in North America.

Apinder Singh Ghura, Chair of French Connection Group, said: “Since takeover in November 2021, we have focused on revitalising French Connection and positioning it for long-term success.

“We are delighted to partner with G-III to advance this strategy and are confident in their ability to unlock meaningful opportunity for French Connection in North America. This agreement builds on our global momentum and reflects our commitment to expanding the brand’s reach and relevance.”

Morris Goldfarb, Chairman and CEO of G-III Apparel, added: “Expanding our portfolio of strategic licenses remains central to our growth strategy.

“This partnership leverages our scaled infrastructure and proven strengths in design, sourcing and distribution to extend the brand’s legacy and deepen its connection to today’s consumer.”