Marubeni Acquires UK’s Jacobson Group, Strengthening Lifestyle Brand Platform

Published: 2026/01/07 12:18:28

Marubeni Consumer Platform US (MCPU) has acquired Jacobson Group Limited, a UK-based company owning a portfolio of established footwear brands including Gola, Lotus, Ravel, and Frank Wright. This strategic acquisition aims to build a robust lifestyle brand platform, with Marubeni’s RGB Brands serving as the central operational engine [[1]]. The deal also includes licensing agreements for Dunlop and Lonsdale.

Expanding Marubeni’s footwear Presence

Marubeni, a major US-based conglomerate with diverse business interests, views the Jacobson Group as a key component in its expansion within the lifestyle sector. MCPU aims to create a scalable operating model focused on strong value creation and growth areas, making Jacobson Group a natural fit [[2]]. The integration will leverage RGB Brands’ expertise and infrastructure to scale the acquired brands effectively.

Jacobson Group’s Legacy and Future

Founded in 1982, Jacobson Group has evolved from a family-run British footwear company into a globally recognized brand portfolio. The acquisition ensures business continuity, with the existing leadership team – Tony Evans, gary Shutt, Jonathan Jacobson, and Donna Hill – remaining in place to guide the transition and maintain the company’s deep industry knowledge [[3]].

Harvey Jacobson, Executive Chairman and co-founder, expressed pride in the company’s accomplishments and confidence in Marubeni and RGB Brands’ ability to propel the jacobson brands forward.He stated the partnership provides the ideal platform, vision, and commitment for future growth.

Synergies with RGB Brands

RGB Brands, with over 75 years of experience in the consumer goods sector, will serve as the foundation for MCPU’s lifestyle platform. The company’s consumer-focused, data-driven, and digitally-centric approach, along with its “Earth First” beliefs, complements Jacobson Group’s brand heritage. RGB Brands currently manages portfolios including Dearfoams, baggallini, and columbus Product Group [[3]].

In november, RGB announced agreements to acquire the global slipper license for Clarks and the U.S. slipper license for Timberland, further solidifying its position in the footwear market.

Strategic Outlook

MCPU President Shana Randhava highlighted the acquisition as a strategic move that advances the platform’s architecture and aligns with the increasing market resonance of brands like Gola. The integration of Jacobson Group is expected to unlock value through shared scale, enhanced go-to-market capabilities, and the realization of untapped potential within the heritage brands.

“This is a transformative moment for RGB,” commented a representative. “Gola brings cultural presence and global ambition, and Jacobson’s broad portfolio extends the reach of our platform.”

Key Takeaways:

• Marubeni’s MCPU has acquired Jacobson Group, including brands like Gola, Lotus, Ravel, and Frank Wright.
• The acquisition expands Marubeni’s presence in the lifestyle footwear market.
• RGB Brands will serve as the operational core of the expanded lifestyle platform.
• Existing Jacobson Group leadership will remain in place to ensure a smooth transition.
• The deal is expected to unlock significant value and drive growth for the combined portfolio.