who owns true religion clothing
True Religion is one of the most recognizable denim brands in the world. Known for its bold stitching, horseshoe logo, and premium jeans, the brand has built a loyal fanbase across generations. But many people still ask a simple question: who actually owns True Religion today? The answer has changed over the years. True Religion has passed through several owners since it was founded, including a public company phase, private equity control, and a recent high-profile acquisition. Here is the complete story of its ownership history.
The Founding of True Religion
True Religion was founded in 2002 by Jeff Lubell and Kym Gold, a husband-and-wife team based in California. The brand quickly became famous https://truereligionjeann.com/ for its premium denim, oversized back-pocket stitching, and craftsmanship-focused approach to jeans. By 2009, True Religion products were sold in around 900 boutiques and specialty stores spread across 50 countries. The brand became a symbol of early 2000s luxury streetwear.
Early Ownership Changes
As True Religion grew, its ownership structure evolved. The company went through a period as a publicly traded business on NASDAQ, during which its sales and market value grew significantly. Later, True Religion faced financial struggles that led to two separate bankruptcy filings, the most recent occurring in 2020. After emerging from bankruptcy, the brand was owned by Farmstead Capital Management, a private investment firm that helped stabilize operations.
Current Owner: ACON Investments
As of 2025, True Religion is owned by ACON Investments, a private equity firm, along with SB360 Capital Partners, a retail investment fund. SB360 is chaired by Jay Schottenstein, who also serves as CEO of American Eagle Outfitters. The acquisition was announced in January 2025, with the goal of accelerating True Religion’s digital growth, international expansion, and product innovation while keeping the brand headquartered in California.
Leadership Behind the Brand
True Religion’s turnaround has largely been credited to CEO Michael Buckley, who has led the company since 2019. Buckley previously served as True Religion’s president from 2006 to 2010, a period during which the company saw major growth in sales and profitability. Under his leadership, True Religion has focused on digital sales, celebrity partnerships, and expanding into new categories like jewelry and pet products. The brand has also grown its store count and strengthened its wholesale presence across North America.
Why This Matters for Shoppers
Understanding who owns True Religion helps explain the brand’s recent strategic direction. With backing from experienced retail investors, True Religion has been investing in stronger e-commerce capabilities, expanded product lines, and modern marketing approaches involving influencers and celebrities. This ownership structure has positioned the brand for continued growth, moving away from its earlier financial instability toward a more sustainable, expansion-focused future.
Final Thoughts
True Religion has come a long way since its founding in 2002. From a husband-and-wife startup to a publicly traded company, then through bankruptcy, and now backed by major private equity investors, the brand’s ownership journey reflects its resilience in a competitive fashion industry. Today, True Religion is owned by ACON Investments and SB360 Capital Partners, with Michael Buckley continuing to lead daily operations as CEO. This partnership is aimed at helping the iconic denim brand grow into new markets while staying true to its original identity.
FAQs
Who owns True Religion now?
True Religion is currently owned by ACON Investments and SB360 Capital Partners.
Who founded True Religion?
True Religion was founded in 2002 by Jeff Lubell and Kym Gold.
Is True Religion still in business?
Yes, True Religion is actively operating and expanding both online and in retail stores.
Who is the CEO of True Religion?
Michael Buckley is the current CEO of True Religion.
Has True Religion filed for bankruptcy before?
Yes, True Religion filed for bankruptcy twice, most recently in 2020.
Is SB360 Capital Partners connected to American Eagle?
Yes, SB360 is chaired by Jay Schottenstein, who is also CEO of American Eagle Outfitters.
Where is True Religion headquartered?
True Religion is headquartered in California.
