Bravissimo acquired by Wacoal Europe
Bravissimo has been acquired by the Wacoal Europe lingerie and swimwear manufacturer.
Wacoal owns the Wacoal, Freya, Fantasie, Elomi and Goddess brands, most of which Bravissimo has been selling for many years.
Bravissimo specialises in lingerie and swimwear in D cup and above. The business has been owned by Sarah Tremellen and her husband since it was founded in 1995 following Tremellen’s own frustrating attempts to find larger cup sized bras.
Under the new ownership, Bravissimo will continue to operate as a separate company under the leadership of Leanne Cahill, who became chief executive in 2020 when Tremellen became chair. The company’s results for 2023 show that underlying EBITDA more than doubled against the previous year.
Speaking of the acquisition, Tremellen said. “It has been an absolute privilege bringing a range of bigger cup size lingerie and swimwear to so many wonderful women.
“Bravissimo has sold Wacoal’s brands since the very first day the business started in my living room and both companies have been instrumental in improving the range of bigger cup sizes in the UK over the last 30 years. I wish the teams at Wacoal and Bravissimo every success for the future.”
Geoff Embley, chief executive of Wacoal Europe, added: “We have been presented with a unique opportunity to join forces with a business that shares our core values and unwavering commitment to delivering perfectly fitting lingerie and swimwear.
“This partnership strengthens our collective vision, creating a powerful platform to expand on our mutual mission.”
Bravissimo will continue to be run from its office and warehouse in Leamington Spa with all UK shops remaining open.
Last night, the company celebrated its win at The Retail Bulletin’s People in Retail Awards in the category of Customer Service Team of the Year.
