TOKYO - Japan's Fast Retailing Co said it will buy an 80.1 percent stake in U.S. denim maker J Brand Holdings from Star Avenue Capital and J Brand managers for $290 million to gain more brand clout in the United States. J Brand managers will hold the remaining 19.9%.

J Brand was only recently established, and its niche position has higher volatility in fashion than casual wear. Nevertheless, the company has solid brand recognition in the U.S. market and maintains good margins. Through the acquisition, Fast Retailing will be able to gain ground in women's apparel, which the company has been focusing on, while at the same time increasing its footprint in the U.S. market.