Spanx
Blackstone (majority stake since 2021) · United States
Spanx is an American shapewear and intimates brand founded in 2000 in Atlanta by Sara Blakely. Blackstone bought a majority stake in October 2021, valuing the company at 1.2 billion US dollars.
| Founded | 2000 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Sara Blakely |
| Headquarters | Atlanta, Georgia |
| Owner | Blackstone (majority, since October 2021) |
| Chief executive | Caroline Whitton since 2024 (per Wikipedia) |
| Segment | Lingerie, swimwear and hosiery |
| Website | spanx.com |
What is Spanx?
Spanx is an American shapewear company founded on 15 February 2000 in Atlanta, Georgia, by Sara Blakely. It is headquartered in Atlanta.
Ownership and leadership
According to Wikipedia, Blackstone bought a majority stake in October 2021, valuing the company at 1.2 billion US dollars, and Blakely remained as executive chair. Caroline Whitton, known as Cricket, was appointed chief executive in 2024. These details come from Wikipedia and should be confirmed against current company announcements.
Products and positioning
The range has widened from shapewear to intimates, hosiery, apparel, activewear, loungewear, denim, swimwear and leggings, in sizes from XS to 3X.
Business model and distribution
- Department stores including Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale's, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman.
- Television retail through QVC.
- Own stores, with the first opening in 2012.
- Sales in more than 50 countries as of 2021, across North America and Europe.
Wikipedia's account of the 2021 transaction gives the 1.2 billion US dollar valuation but no revenue figure with a year, so none is stated here. Readers who need current financial data should consult Blackstone or company announcements, as private ownership limits public reporting.
Why it matters
Spanx created a mainstream shapewear category from a founder-led start-up and is now backed by a large private equity investor. Its mix of department store, TV and own retail channels shows how a single-product brand grew into a broad intimates and apparel business.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Spanx?
Blackstone bought a majority stake in October 2021 at a 1.2 billion US dollar valuation. Founder Sara Blakely remained as executive chair after the deal.
Where is Spanx from?
Spanx is an American brand founded in Atlanta, Georgia, in 2000 by Sara Blakely.
