Itochu Corporation has agreed to acquire all shares of Edwin Holdings, Japan's largest jeans manufacturer and retailer, making it a wholly owned subsidiary, and has also signed a sponsorship agreement effective March 10, 2014. The Edwin Group, with Edwin Holdings as its holding company, manufactures and sells its own brands, including "EDWIN" and "SOMETHING," as well as licenses for American jeans brands such as "Lee" and "Wrangler" and the American military brand "ALPHA INDUSTRIES," known for its flight jackets. However, in 2012, the company discovered huge losses due to foreign exchange derivatives and other factors. In November 2013, the company filed for private reorganization through ADR. While other potential sponsors included Itochu, apparel giant World, and Toyota Tsusho, Itochu was considered the leading candidate, having contributed extensively to the Edwin Group's growth through its long-standing business relationships with the group, including material and product development, brand introduction, sales channel development, and credit enhancement.

Going forward, while respecting the traditions and uniqueness of the Edwin Group, the company will re-strengthen its core jeans business and also aim to expand its product lineup beyond jeans.