By Sonal Gandhi
Chief Content Officer at The Lead
Tariff-related issues and uncertainty was a big topic of discussion at The Lead’s annual Foremost 50 Forum, held this week to honor young challenger brands. Meanwhile, Revlon is joining other beauty and apparel brands at the Super Bowl with a pop-up and Walmart bought a mall.
Gap is expanding its partnership with Sean Wotherspoon, its global vintage curator, to release GapVintage, a series of curated Gap vintage clothing drops which will include Gap pieces from the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s. (Retail Dive)
L’Oréal Group is partnering with IBM to use AI to help achieve its goal to source mostly bio-based or circular materials by 2030. Major players in the beauty industry are using AI-based technology to accelerate the research and development process. AI is helping them to analyze vast amounts of data [around] ingredients, formulas and consumer preference. Sourcing raw materials — including identifying and analyzing environmental concerns and labor practices across a supply chain — as well as formulating and testing can all happen faster with AI. (Glossy)
Anine Bing (Foremost 50 brand), recently crossed the $100 million revenue threshold, and is looking to double revenues and global store count over the next 3 years. The plan also includes amplifying and sharpening the brand’s image and expanding leather goods offerings via a new design studio in Paris. (WWD)
Vans’ Premium Old Skool sneaker – the classic silhouette with the familiar sidestripe logo – has been redesigned.The features include a bio-based insole foam for enhanced cushioning and a new footbed for improved fit. The style will drop monthly in various designs beginning Thursday at Vans retail locations and vans.com. (WWD)
Walmart bought Monroeville Mall near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania from CBL Properties in a $34 million all-cash deal. (CNBC)
Tariff policy continued to evolve this week, here’s current status: China 10% tariff increase took effect, and de minimis treatment for goods from China, Mexico, and Canada was revoked. Mexico and Canada tariffs are on hold for 30 days pending other agreements.
L’Oreal became a minority investor in JACQUEMUS (French fashion brand).
Taos Footwear raised debt and investment capital of $65M from Prospect Capital.
Beyond, Inc. will acquire the Buy Buy Baby brand rights for $5M.
Archive (resale tech) raised $30M led by Energize Capital.
Deconstruct (DTC skincare) raised $7.7M from L’Oréal VC fund, V3 Ventures, and DSG Consumer Partners.
Spindrift Beverage Co, Inc. received an investment from GRYPHON.
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