Three Australian fashion and lifestyle retailers are set for a fresh start after financial struggles and store closures, in an acquisition.
The deal has been announced by Brand Collective, the Larry Kestelman-owned retail group with a portfolio of more than 30 brands.
The acquisition includes Glue Store, The DOM and Running Bare, with Brand Collective describing the move as a “significant step forward” in its ongoing growth strategy with plans to rebuild the retailers through digital investment.
“These acquisitions demonstrate Brand Collective’s ongoing evolution and innovation as a business,” chief executive David Thomas told industry publication Inside Retail.
“Brand Collective has considerable experience in taking brands to new levels of success, and we see enormous potential across all three.”
The announcement comes after all three experienced disruption, including closures and financial difficulties.
The acquisition marks a potential comeback for youth fashion retailer Glue Store, which was shut down by former owner Accent Group in June following an $8.4 million loss.
Brand Collective said it plans to maintain Glue Store’s focus on youth fashio n, while introducing an improved digital experience and expanding its store presence.
The company has not yet revealed when Glue Store will relaunch or how many physical stores it intends to operate.
The DOM, an online factory outlet that closed in April amid financial constraints, will be rebuilt as a fashion plattform.
“Brand Collective intends to build The Dom into a broader destination providing customers with fashion, footwear and lifestyle at great prices,” a company spokesperson said.
The relaunch timeline remains unclear, with The DOM’s website currently stating it is “reconfiguring” and “will be returning soon”, without specifying when the notice was posted.
Longstanding Australian activewear brand Running Bare is the third retailer included in the acquisition.
The Sydney -crafted activewear brand, which has been operating since 1983, spent six months out of business before being acquired by Brand Collective.
The group plans to preserve Running Bare’s “distinct identity” while investing in its digital operations, with further details expected in the coming months.
The financial terms of the three acquisitions have not been made public.
Brand Collective’s portfolio includes international names such as Superdry, Reebok, Champion, Clarks and Canada Goose, alongside Australian brands including Review, Black Pepper, Volley and Julius Marlow.
The deals come as Australia’s retail sector faces ongoing financial pressures, rising operating costs and changing consumer spending habits.
The announcement comes as Australian fashion retailer Cue Clothing Co, which has operated for nearly six decades, faces collapse after entering receivership and voluntary administration in September.
7NEWS.com.au has contacted Brand Collective for comment.