American investment company The Carlyle Group takes a majority stake in End., a British retailer of luxury sportswear.
Support expansion
Founders Christiaan Ashworth and John Parker will retain a significant stake in their company and will continue to lead the retailer together as co-CEOs. Investor Index Ventures, currently minority shareholder, will withdraw completely. In principle, the transaction will be completed on 1 April.
The new owner, who also already owns Dutch lingerie retailer Hunkemöller, wants to support End.’s growth, both at home and abroad. The press release confirming the acquisition especially mentioned plans to launch women’s apparel.
End. was founded in Newcastle in 2005, and has achieved a turnover of 170 million pounds (almost 200 million euros) during its latest financial year. The fashion company employs more than 650 people, and collaborates with over 500 designers and brands.
