Ames Watson Acquires Champion Sportswear

COLUMBIA, MARYLAND (October 1, 2024) – Ames Watson, a privately held investment firm with a strong track record in revitalizing iconic brands, announced its pivotal role in the acquisition of athleticwear giant Champion. As part of this partnership with Authentic Brands Group (ABG), Ames Watson will lead the management of Champion’s long-standing U.S. collegiate apparel and teamwear business. The acquisition marks a key strategic milestone for Ames Watson as it continues to grow its portfolio and extend its expertise in the apparel and retail sectors.

Champion, a brand synonymous with innovation and athletic culture for over a century, generates nearly $3 billion in global retail sales annually. Ames Watson will now oversee Champion’s collegiate apparel business through GearCo, which will be managed and operated by Ames Watson. The teamwear division also includes Gear for Sports, Knights Apparel, and Champion Teamwear, all of which will be integrated into Ames Watson’s operational framework.

“This acquisition is a perfect fit for Ames Watson. We are excited to partner with Authentic Brands Group to continue Champion’s incredible legacy, particularly in the collegiate and teamwear markets where we have extensive expertise,” said Tom Ripley, Partner and Co-Founder at Ames Watson. “We look forward to leveraging our strengths in apparel, retail, and operations to drive the next phase of growth for Champion.”

Ames Watson plans to build on Champion’s rich heritage while driving innovation in collegiate sportswear. Ames Watson has also managed brands such as Lids and Fan Outfitters.

“We are proud to take on this exciting challenge and look forward to further elevating Champion’s presence in collegiate and teamwear,” said Lawrence Berger, Partner and Co-Founder at Ames Watson. “Our goal is to honor Champion’s past while unlocking new opportunities for growth and innovation.”