Artistic Milliners Acquires Majority Stake in Cone Denim, Forms New Global Entity

Artistic Milliners, a Pakistan-based global leader in denim manufacturing, has acquired a majority stake in Cone Denim from Elevate Textiles, the company announced. The new multinational organization will operate under the Cone Denim brand, with the transaction expected to close in the first quarter of 2026. Artistic Milliners’ Pakistan operations will continue to function independently, while Cone Denim will serve as a standalone portfolio company. The combined platform will integrate selected assets from both organizations, creating an international denim manufacturer with operations in North America, Asia, and beyond. The new Cone Denim will operate its existing mills in Parras and Yecapixtla, Mexico, and in Jiaxing, China, along with Artistic Milliners’ garment facility in Parras, Mexico, and its Star Fades International laundry and development center in Los Angeles. Murtaza Ahmed and Omer Ahmed of Artistic Milliners said the collaboration would allow Cone to maintain its unique identity while benefiting from shared expertise and infrastructure. “Our multinational manufacturing locations will offer speed, scale, and surety of supply,” they said in a joint statement. Steve Maggard, President of Cone Denim, will lead the new entity, reporting to a board that includes Omer Ahmed, Murtaza Ahmed, and Jeffrey P. Pritchett, alongside additional directors yet to be appointed. Jeffrey P. Pritchett, CEO of Elevate Textiles, said the move unites two globally recognized denim leaders with a strong heritage in innovation, sustainability, and responsible manufacturing. He added that the restructured Cone Denim will expand its global footprint, including the revival of US production and entry into new regions. Customers of both Cone Denim and Artistic Milliners are expected to see continuity in service and quality, with plans underway to expand offerings, including fabric and garment production in North Africa.