The partnership combines Li & Fung’s global sourcing and supply-chain capabilities with SANCTUARY’s established retail business, creating a platform for international expansion and lifestyle-category growth.
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NEW YORK, Oct. 23, 2026 — WSG Brands has acquired Los Angeles-based SANCTUARY, setting the stage for the contemporary women’s brand to expand internationally, diversify its product portfolio and strengthen its global commercial reach.
The acquisition brings nearly three decades of SANCTUARY brand equity, established wholesale operations and longstanding retail relationships into WSG’s growing portfolio. The strategic focus is to scale the business beyond its existing markets while retaining the product identity and customer loyalty built since its founding in 1997.
International expansion is a central growth driver. WSG has identified the UK, Europe, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and Asia as priority markets where SANCTUARY remains relatively underpenetrated. Licensing, distribution, retail partnerships and digital commerce are expected to provide routes into these territories.
The transaction also creates scope to reduce the brand’s reliance on women’s apparel by extending into men’s, children’s and home products. These categories are intended to build on SANCTUARY’s existing aesthetic and customer base, opening additional revenue opportunities across lifestyle segments.
Li & Fung’s role adds a supply-chain dimension to the expansion strategy. The group will serve as the anchor licensee for SANCTUARY’s existing women’s ready-to-wear business, bringing global sourcing, operational scale and supply-chain expertise to the partnership. This arrangement could support broader market access and category development, although the companies have not disclosed financial targets or an expansion timetable.
Founded in 1997 by Ken and Debra Polanco, SANCTUARY built its reputation on fit, trouser-making expertise and utility-inspired contemporary dressing. Its current portfolio spans ready-to-wear, petites, curve, swim, footwear and accessories.
The founders will remain actively involved in the operating business, with existing creative and product leadership continuing to shape the brand. SANCTUARY will also retain its distinct identity, signalling a growth strategy based on scaling its established proposition rather than a wholesale repositioning.
WSG Brands CEO Jack Cheika said the objective was to build on SANCTUARY’s existing strengths while reaching new consumers and entering complementary categories.
MMG Advisors, Inc. acted as SANCTUARY’s exclusive financial adviser on the transaction. Financial terms were not disclosed.