IVEST Consumer Partners and Cloverlay have sold the Care Bears franchise to Authentic Brands Group, transferring ownership of the iconic children's brand after just three years. The private equity firms acquired Care Bears from the Weiss family in 2023, ending over four decades of family control. This deal moves a globally recognized entertainment property to a major licensing platform.

Under IVEST and Cloverlay's operational leadership, Care Bears revenue increased fourfold. The brand projects retail sales exceeding $750 million by year-end 2026, up from its historical performance. Since its 1980s launch, Care Bears has generated more than $12 billion in retail sales worldwide, demonstrating sustained consumer appeal across generations.

Authentic Brands Group manages a portfolio generating over $36 billion in annual systemwide retail sales globally. The acquisition strengthens Authentic's children's licensing position while providing IVEST and Cloverlay a strategic exit. Both firms will maintain ongoing roles supporting the brand transition.

The sale reflects consolidation in entertainment licensing as companies chase nostalgia-driven revenue streams. Care Bears joins Authentic's extensive portfolio alongside other heritage brands, positioning the franchise for expanded global distribution through existing retail partnerships.