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The Brand Ledger

Forever 21

Fast fashion retailer.

Status: Avoid
Founded
1984
HQ
USA
Manufacturing
Various
Ownership type
Brand licensing (ABG-style)
Parent
Authentic Brands Group
Acquired
2020 (out of bankruptcy)

Ownership

Bought out of bankruptcy by ABG in 2020. Went bankrupt again in 2025, losing over $400M in three years. All 350 US stores closed. ABG CEO called the acquisition 'probably the biggest mistake I made.'

Why Avoid

Fast fashion, ABG-owned, twice-bankrupt. Outside the BIFL frame entirely.

Sister brands under Authentic Brands Group

Read the full investigation