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Bluestar in talks to acquire KMD Brands

PRIVATENov 02, 2026

Acquiring Company

Bluestar Alliance

Acquired Company

KMD Brands

New YorkE CommerceFashionRetailFashionRetail

Description

KMD Brands, parent of Kathmandu, Rip Curl and Oboz, has entered an exclusivity agreement with Bluestar Alliance over a possible transaction to acquire all of its shares. KMD stated there is no certainty that the process will result in a binding proposal or a completed transaction.

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Company Information

Company

Bluestar Alliance

Location

New York, New York, United States

About

Founded by Joseph Gabbay and Ralph Gindi in 2006, Bluestar owns, manages, and markets a portfolio of consumer brands that span across many tiers of distribution from luxury to mass market. This portfolio consists of major department store retail brands including Hurley, Tahari, Bebe, as well as Justice, Brookstone, Kensie, Catherine Malandrino, Nanette Lepore, English Laundry, Joan Vass and Limited Too. Each brand is uniquely positioned maintaining the brand heritage and equity, considering new categories and current tiers of distribution. Bluestar's current network of international and domestic partners offers the opportunity to take a niche brand to a visible worldwide lifestyle brand. Since its inception, Bluestar has acquired select brands with current retail sales exceeding $6 billion. The company manages a current portfolio of over 300 licensees and a growing branded retail platform of over 100 stores worldwide.

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Frequently asked

Who acquired KMD Brands?

KMD Brands was acquired by Bluestar Alliance, based in New York. The deal was reported on November 2, 2026. Founded by Joseph Gabbay and Ralph Gindi in 2006, Bluestar owns, manages, and markets a portfolio of consumer brands that span across many tiers of distribution from luxury to mass market. Bluestar Alliance is privately held and operates in E Commerce.

When did Bluestar Alliance acquire KMD Brands?

Bluestar Alliance's acquisition of KMD Brands was reported on November 2, 2026. KMD Brands, parent of Kathmandu, Rip Curl and Oboz, has entered an exclusivity agreement with Bluestar Alliance over a possible transaction to acquire all of its shares. Fundz records the date the transaction was first publicly reported, sourced from filings and company announcements.

What does KMD Brands do?

KMD Brands is the owner of popular brands such as Rip Curl, Volcom, and Oboz. It focuses on providing innovative products and building strong consumer connections. It is privately held, operating in Fashion.

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