Roots Corporation Agrees to Go Private in Transaction Led by Marquee Brands, in Partnership with Canadian Retail Leaders Joseph Mimran and Frank Rocchetti, to Position Roots for Next Chapter of Global Growth

Roots agrees to be acquired for C$4.10 per share in cash, in transaction that is unanimously recommended by Roots Board of Directors

TORONTO, August 20, 2026--Canadian heritage outdoor and lifestyle brand Roots Corporation ("Roots" or the "Company") (TSX: ROOT) and Marquee Brands, the premier global brand management company and leading brand accelerator, today announced they have entered into an agreement (the "Agreement") whereby Marquee Brands will acquire Roots, through its strategic operating partner, in a transaction designed to preserve all that makes Roots uniquely Canadian, while bringing the brand to more consumers around the world. As part of the transaction, Marquee Brands has partnered with JM&A Design and Development Inc. ("JM&A"), led by renowned Canadian retail experts Joseph Mimran and Frank Rocchetti. JM&A will serve as core operating partner of Roots, which will continue to be operated in Canada. Marquee Brands will focus on global brand stewardship and expansion, as well as new category development.

"Taking on Roots is an incredible honour, and our strategic partnership with JM&A ensures the brand remains anchored in Canadian culture," said Heath Golden, CEO of Marquee Brands. "With that foundation in place, we see significant global opportunity to extend Roots into new categories, markets and consumer segments, while remaining true to all that makes the brand distinctive."

As Roots core operating partner, JM&A will oversee the design, development, manufacturing and distribution of men's and women's lifestyle apparel and assume responsibility for retail and e-commerce operations across Canada and the United States, including the Roots fleet of more than 100 North American stores. Under this structure, the brand will remain in Canada, guided by Canadian operating leadership who understand the Roots customer as well as the brand's heritage and its enduring place in Canadian culture. Marquee Brands will bring its proven brand management and marketing platform and best-in-class network to galvanize the brand's global growth.

"Few brands are as deeply connected to Canada's identity as Roots," said Joseph Mimran, President & Creative Director of JM&A. "The opportunity is to build from that strength with renewed focus on product, merchandising and the customer experience, while remaining true to the character that has made Roots so distinctive. Frank and I look forward to leading the business from Canada in partnership with Marquee Brands and positioning the brand for its next phase of growth."