About
Lacoste is a French luxury sports fashion company established in 1933 by tennis player René Lacoste and entrepreneur André Gillier. Initially producing the revolutionary tennis shirt designed and worn by Lacoste himself, the brand quickly became recognizable for its iconic green crocodile logo. The company's early success led to a licensing agreement with Izod in the 1950s for US distribution, a partnership that concluded in 1993 when Lacoste reclaimed its exclusive US rights. Over time, Lacoste expanded its product line beyond tennis shirts to include clothing, footwear, sportswear, eyewear, leather goods, perfume, towels, and watches. The brand's global presence grew significantly throughout the decades, bolstered by successful sponsorships of numerous tennis players and golfers. In 2012, the Swiss family-held group Maus Frères acquired Lacoste. Through various design collaborations and brand management efforts, Lacoste has successfully maintained its position as a high-end luxury brand. The company has also faced controversies including accusations of environmental damage and censorship, which were later addressed by the brand. The company continues to expand its offerings and its global presence.