LVMH-Backed L Catterton Takes Japanese Denim Brand Kapital Global

The partnership coincides with KAPITAL’s upcoming 40th anniversary in 2025 and follows the passing of its founder, Toshikiyo Hirata, in April 2024

Kapital, the revered Japanese clothing brand, has long stayed on the fringes of mainstream fashion. But with luxury powerhouse LVMH now showing interest, its journey toward wider recognition might just begin.

L Catterton, the private equity firm supported by LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE), has taken a majority stake in the Japanese brand KAPITAL. According to the firm’s website, the investment was made in 2024, though the details of the stake remain undisclosed. This partnership comes just ahead of KAPITAL’s 40th anniversary in 2025 and less than a year after the passing of its founder, Toshikiyo Hirata, in April 2024.

Kapital has built a loyal global fanbase, even with its roots firmly planted in Japan. Known for its Japanese Boro denim and Americana-inspired designs, the brand has become a cult favorite among menswear enthusiasts. Despite having all its retail stores exclusively in Japan, its influence travels far and wide. Back in 2013, Kim Jones collaborated with Kapital for Louis Vuitton’s Spring/Summer collection, and in recent years, celebrity supporters like Travis Scott and A$AP Rocky have further amplified its appeal.

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L Catterton, the investment powerhouse backed by LVMH and Groupe Arnault—Bernard Arnault’s family holding company—has a knack for reshaping the fashion landscape. Since its launch in 2016, it’s been behind some of the industry’s most talked-about deals. From taking Birkenstock public in 2023 to acquiring a majority stake in French label A.P.C., the firm’s portfolio spans everything from high fashion to beauty, restaurants, home goods and even pet food.