Andrew Rosen Investing in Proenza Schouler?
Rumors first surfaced over a year ago that Andrew Rosen, the founder and co-CEO of Theory, was interested in picking up a stake in Proenza Schouler—now it looks like the deal might finally come to fruition.
Women’s Wear Daily reports that the investment might be finalized as soon as the end of July, with Rosen heading an investment group that would buy out the 45 percent stake owned by Permira, a European private equity firm that also controls Valentino.
Permira’s Valentino Fashion Group provided Proenza Schouler with the cash flow needed for the company to secure its place among fashion’s heavy hitters, but as early as February 2010, Permira was rumored to be considering selling its stake.
Rosen runs both Theory and Helmut Lang as a single company, and also has invested in Alice + Olivia and Rag & Bone, but WWD reports that his investment in Proenza Schouler would be separate from the other fashion endeavors.
In related news, Rosen along with Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough of Proenza Schouler recently served on a panel that chose the 2011 crop of CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalists.
