Private equity firm Carlyle Group LP is rumored to be considering acquiring legendary British brand Dr Martens.
To say that Dr Martens boots are popular is to say nothing at all. First introduced in 1960, they were originally intended for soldiers, postmen, policemen and other members of similar professions. These shoes were not only very reliable and durable, but also exceptionally comfortable. Thanks to this, she quickly became popular also among representatives of various youth movements - first with skinheads, then punks, goths, hippies, etc. As a result, the brand, created by British businessman Bill Griggs, has become not just famous, but a cult.
In 2014, British investment firm Permira bought the iconic brand from the Griggs family for around £300 million. Under the new leadership, the business of the brand went even better. So, in 2019, it became known about the increase in income immediately on 30%, up to 454.4 million pounds.
However, rumors have recently appeared on the Web that Permira is collaborating with Goldman Sachs Group Inc. and Robert W. Baird & Co to consider selling Dr Martens. Among the possible contenders for the purchase was the American investment company KKR & Co. Inc. However, according to new data, the deal did not take place and now there is a high probability that the brand may go to the private American investment company Carlyle Group LP.
So far, all parties deny the possibility of concluding such a deal. However, as you know, there is no smoke without fire and the appearance of many such rumors probably means that Dr Martens can really change hands. Time will tell.
