Chip Wilson, Lululemon Athletica’s founder, former CEO and outspoken critic of the company, announced that he is creating a new venture investing in and supporting “small athletic-focused brands” as part of his effort to “lead innovation in the technical apparel space,” according to a report from Bloomberg.
Wilson’s venture will reportedly include both new and existing small brands, and he has reportedly hired an unidentified operating partner for the new business, another source told Bloomberg.
“Chip Wilson has been an investor in technical apparel for years,” a spokesman for Wilson said in an e-mailed response to Bloomberg. “Chip has recently created a new structure to bring additional focus to its investments in early-stage, founder-led companies. Chip remains passionate about supporting founders and leading innovation in the technical apparel space.”
The brands could serve as potential competitors to Lululemon.
Wilson, one of the largest independent shareholders in Lululemon with an 8.6 percent stake, launched a proxy fight against the company at the end of last year by nominating three independent directors — Marc Maurer, Laura Gentile and Eric Hirshberg — to the board and calling for annual board elections. He has issued several press statements charging Lululemon’s board with acting in its own self-interest and lacking urgency as the retailer seeks a new CEO.
Former CEO Calvin McDonald departed in December 2025 amid slowing North American sales and pressure from Wilson and activist investor Elliott Investment Management.
Wilson also holds nearly 13 percent of Amer Sports’ shares through his entity, Anamered Investments, and has holdings in private equity and real estate. Forbes recently estimated Wilson’s net worth at $6.3 billion.
Image courtesy chipwilson.com
