Luxury brand Les Benjamins secures investor backing

By

Barbara Santamaria

Published
Mar 10, 2020

Turkish streetwear brand Les Benjamins has secured an undisclosed investment from the largest family-owned investment firm in Turkey.

With offices in London and Istanbul, Esas Holding invests in various asset classes globally, and the deal marks its debut in the world of fashion.

Led by entrepreneur Fethi Sabanci Kamisli, founder and managing partner of Esas Ventures, the transaction is also supported by other family members including Ali Sabancı, Kazım Köseoğlu, Can Köseoğlu and Kerem Sabancı Kamışlı.

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In addition to funding the brand’s growth plans, Esas shareholders and Les Benjamins are forming a “deep rooted” partnership that will involve Fethi Sabancı Kamışlı joining the board of Les Benjamins and possibly, more investments in the future.

“We are very pleased to enter the fashion industry with our investment in Les Benjamins, a successful representative of our country,” said Esas managing director Fethi Sabancı Kamışlı.

“I believe that we will bring a different kind of momentum to Les Benjamins with the investments and network strength of the Esas Family Office across five continents and with the vision of our shareholders. Becoming a part of this success story with our stake in Les Benjamins, which combines new generation street fashion culture with its own vision, makes me very proud.”

Founded in 2011 by Bünyamin Aydın, the contemporary luxury streetwear brand counts international celebrities including Jay-Z and Rita Ora among its clients. It is stocked by the likes of Harvey Nichols and Bloomingdale's, and collaborations with brands including Nike and Apple have helped put its name on the map.

It currently operates two stores in China, with future plans to open new locations in the US.

Bunyamin Aydin, who's also creative director, said: “Les Benjamins is more than just an investment in fashion-textiles; we are also making a difference in the world as a Turkish brand with a lifestyle and experience offering. 

“I am delighted to receive funding from Fethi Sabancı Kamışlı and his family, who I believe will add value to our brand with his vision and to earn their trust with our brand and our work. I am confident that he and his family will build on the brand value of Les Benjamins and expedite our growth in the international arena with current and future investments.”