Could J.Crew Be Up For Sale?

With revenues reaching for the skies and international awareness gaining pace, J.Crew is hot property right now. Creative director Jenna Lyons’ polished style aside, the brand’s high-end aesthetic, supplemented by reasonable prices, may be one of the many reasons behind the label’s owners, TPG Capital and Leonard Green & Partners, putting it up for an IPO.

As reported by WWD, various sources have spoken of a possible IPO (initial public offering) as early as the new year. Thanks to its latest London takeover, with an impressive 17,000-square-foot flagship store on Regent Street, alongside two other locations in the capital, the brand’s flourishing profile comes as no surprise. “There’s been a lot of interest from people around the world who would like to acquire or partner with J. Crew,” said one source.

The brand was taken private by TPG and Leonard Green & Partners in 2011 for $2.86 billion, while revenues for the last quarter shot up by 11.3 percent to $422.3 million. But, what could this potential sale mean for London’s newest shopping haven?

We wouldn't rule out the prospect of further global expansion – after all, everyone needs a pair of jacquard pants to work Jenna’s magic. However, let’s hope the spirit of the brand and its ability to fill our wardrobes with affordable luxury in financially austere times isn’t affected. (WWD)