SOPH. - Makers of SOPHNET., F.C.R.B. and uniform experiment - Acquired by JUN CO., LTD

Recent news has surfaced regarding the acquisition of SOPH. by fellow Japanese company JUN CO., LTD. This is undoubtedly the biggest news on the side of Japanese fashion acquisitions since A Bathing Ape‘s sale to Chinese conglomerate I.T back in February of 2011. With the deal, JUN CO., LTD will acquire all stocks and trademark rights to SOPHNET., uniform experiment and F.C.R.B. with the appointment of JUN CO., LTD as the chairman of SOPH. while founder Hirofumi Kiyonaga will remain on board as president. With the acquisition, there are plans to truly expand SOPH. and its entities into globally recognized brands with little in the form of internal management. In closing, Kiyonaga had the following quote:

We currently manage a total of 14 stores in Japan and overseas. We were looking for a business partner to accelerate our further expansion. Mr. Sasaki becomes our chairman but aside from that, the management of the company will remain the same. Through this partnership, it would be interesting if a new type of fashion conglomerate were [sic] born.