Luxury Retail Expert Says Sequential-Martha Stewart Deal Would Be A 'Win-Win'

A rumor surfaced Thursday that Sequential Brands Group Inc (NASDAQ: SQBG) is moving to acquire Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia (NYSE: MSO).

According to The Wall Street Journal, the buyout could be announced within a few days, although no details are known.

Kristin Bentz, President of Talented Blonde, LLC and a retail markets expert, weighed in on the news.

Related Link: The Market Appears To Believe Sequential Brands Will Acquire Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia

Bentz called the potential deal a win-win for both parties. She told Benzinga that, "[Sequential] has been on the prowl for acquisitions, and MSO would be a slam dunk."

Bentz noted that Sequential has "some great brands that just need a little love and rebranding," including REVO, Ellen Tracy, and Heely's. Martha Stewart, in her words, "would give them a multi-platform lifestyle brand that is basically turn-key."

More generally, she is optimistic about Sequential's growth prospects, especially with big-time financial backers such as Bank of America and Blackstone.

Bentz sees a bright future ahead for Sequential as well as Martha Stewart, especially if it can enter under the licensing firm's umbrella.

Shares of Sequential closed up more than 12 percent at $16.08. Shares of Martha Stewart closed 26 percent higher at $6.44.