Nov 8 (Reuters) - California-based premium athleisure

wear maker Vuori Inc said on Friday that global investors

General Atlantic and Stripes led an investment round worth $825

million, taking up the brand's valuation to $5.5 billion.

The investment is structured as a secondary tender offer

that includes a group of other investors as well.

In 2021, SoftBank's venture capital fund invested

$400 million in the company, then valuing the business at $4

billion.

Activewear makers have enjoyed steady demand since the

pandemic, as customers stuck at home shopped for everything from

yoga pants to sports shoes.

The company, which makes $100 leggings and $64 sports bras, has

quickly grown in popularity among young consumers in the United

States alongside rival Alo Yoga and category leader Lululemon

Athletica ( LULU ).

Founded in 2015, Vuori plans to exceed 100 stores in 2026

with a focus on expansion in key markets in Europe and Asia.

The U.S. athleisure market is expected to grow at a

compounded annual growth rate of 7% through 2028, according to

the statement from Vuori.