MML-backed BMB acquires SWI Schoolwear

The transaction was supported by fresh growth capital from MML and by working capital facilities from BMB's incumbent lender Barclays.

The acquisition is intended to bolster BMB's retail partnerships, which currently account for 30% of SWI's sales. The company also stated the buyout would help it improve its design and marketing departments.

The deal marks the group's second bolt-on since MML backed its management buyout in July 2015. BMB acquired Orion Teamwear in January 2016.

The business had also undertaken a buy-and-build growth strategy prior to MML's initial investment. In 2006 it bought Stag Knitwear and Medallion Sportswear, before acquiring The Banner Group four years later.

Company
Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Runcorn, Cheshire, SWI designs and manufactures school uniforms and school sports kits.

People
MML Capital Partners – Luke Jones (partner).
Blue Max Banner – Nigel Plenderleith (chief executive).
SWI Schoolwear – Kirk Robertson (founder).

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• Topics
• Expansion
• UK / Ireland
• Consumer
• United Kingdom
• Build-up
• MML Capital Partners