Who Owns Coach?

Coach was founded in 1941 by Miles and Lillian Cahn as a small leather goods company in New York. The company began by handcrafting leather handbags using traditional techniques, emphasizing durability, functionality, and timeless design. Coach quickly gained recognition for its high-quality leather goods and developed a loyal customer base seeking premium American craftsmanship. This founding vision demonstrated exceptional insight into the growing demand for quality leather goods while establishing a distinctive American luxury approach that would define the accessible luxury category for generations.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Coach expanded its product range and retail presence while maintaining its commitment to quality leather goods. The brand became known for its iconic designs and accessible luxury positioning, appealing to consumers seeking premium quality at reasonable prices. Coach established itself as a distinctly American luxury brand with strong heritage and brand recognition. This period of expansion demonstrated Coach's exceptional ability to scale operations while maintaining consistent brand positioning and quality standards that would define the brand for decades.

Coach went public in 2000, establishing itself as a major player in the global luxury accessories market. The brand continued to innovate in product design and retail experience while maintaining its reputation for quality and American heritage. In 2017, Tapestry, Inc. (formerly Coach, Inc.) acquired Kate Spade, significantly expanding its brand portfolio. This strategic transformation demonstrated Coach's exceptional ability to evolve from a single brand to a luxury conglomerate while maintaining its core brand identity and market leadership. Coach remains the dominant brand within Tapestry's portfolio and continues to drive the company's financial performance and global expansion, representing a significant milestone in the evolution of American luxury fashion and accessible luxury brands.