MBO at fashion retailer French Dressing
Upmarket womenswear chain sold to management
UK fashion chain Emma Somerset and French Dressing has been sold to its management team in a multi-million pound deal.
The upmarket retailer, founded in Manchester in 1969 by Angela and Geoffrey Cantor, now now has 18 stores throughout the UK.
The Cantor family has sold the business to former sales director David Barker and finance director Roger Newton, who now take up positions as joint managing directors.
Barker said: “Emma Somerset and French Dressing has a unique market position in providing a very special and personal service to its customers. It is a strong brand with tremendous potential.
“We plan to build on its strength by updating its image through a planned refurbishment programme, starting with Leeds and Southport this summer. The shop fit will have a more contemporary feel, including new brand logos.
“The target market will remain 30 to 55 with the product more focused in line with this target.”
The chain has three stores in the north west, a further five in the north of England, one in the Midlands, five in the south of England and three in London.
Altrincham law firm, Neil Myerson Solicitors and accountants Alexander Berg & Co advised the Cantor family. Boote Edgar Esterkin advised the MBO team. Funding for the deal came from the Bank of Scotland.
