French Connection Seeks Revival with Cheeky Slogan and New Partnerships
The iconic British brand French Connection is making a comeback, thanks to a new licensing agreement with G-III Apparel Group and a revamped strategy aimed at revitalizing its image. The company, which was once a staple of 90s fashion, has struggled in recent years to find its footing in the fast-paced world of mid-market fashion.
Once known for its provocative slogan "FCUK" (which stood for Fashion, Chic, Unique, and Knowledge), French Connection has attempted to reinvent itself several times over the years. In 2005, the brand dropped the infamous logo, but it resurfaced briefly in 2016 without much success. However, with the new partnership with G-III Apparel Group, French Connection is set to revive its FCUK branding and expand globally.
Under the ownership of British entrepreneurs Apinder Singh Ghura, Amarjit Singh Grewal, and KJR Brothers, French Connection has relaunched itself as a premium brand offering high-quality garments at affordable prices. The company's new head of design, Helen Gallagher from Mint Velvet, is credited with improving the brand's product line.
The revival comes as fellow 90s stalwart Topshop attempts to win its way back into wardrobes via a new online presence and River Island battles for survival with a rescue restructuring. With French Connection poised to regain its footing, it remains to be seen whether the brand can reclaim its former glory and become a staple of fashion once again.
French Connection's ambitious plan is to focus on "capital light" expansion through licensees, targeting south-east Asia and China as key markets for growth. The company aims to widen its footwear and accessories ranges rather than opening expensive UK outlets.
Managing Director Simon Donoghue emphasized the importance of design and product quality in driving growth, stating that prices are now similar to four years ago but with improved quality resonating with customers. With French Connection poised to make a comeback, it's clear that the brand is committed to regaining its status as a fashion powerhouse.
The iconic British brand French Connection is making a comeback, thanks to a new licensing agreement with G-III Apparel Group and a revamped strategy aimed at revitalizing its image. The company, which was once a staple of 90s fashion, has struggled in recent years to find its footing in the fast-paced world of mid-market fashion.
Once known for its provocative slogan "FCUK" (which stood for Fashion, Chic, Unique, and Knowledge), French Connection has attempted to reinvent itself several times over the years. In 2005, the brand dropped the infamous logo, but it resurfaced briefly in 2016 without much success. However, with the new partnership with G-III Apparel Group, French Connection is set to revive its FCUK branding and expand globally.
Under the ownership of British entrepreneurs Apinder Singh Ghura, Amarjit Singh Grewal, and KJR Brothers, French Connection has relaunched itself as a premium brand offering high-quality garments at affordable prices. The company's new head of design, Helen Gallagher from Mint Velvet, is credited with improving the brand's product line.
The revival comes as fellow 90s stalwart Topshop attempts to win its way back into wardrobes via a new online presence and River Island battles for survival with a rescue restructuring. With French Connection poised to regain its footing, it remains to be seen whether the brand can reclaim its former glory and become a staple of fashion once again.
French Connection's ambitious plan is to focus on "capital light" expansion through licensees, targeting south-east Asia and China as key markets for growth. The company aims to widen its footwear and accessories ranges rather than opening expensive UK outlets.
Managing Director Simon Donoghue emphasized the importance of design and product quality in driving growth, stating that prices are now similar to four years ago but with improved quality resonating with customers. With French Connection poised to make a comeback, it's clear that the brand is committed to regaining its status as a fashion powerhouse.