
Bancroft acquires minority stake in Rubik's Brand
Bancroft Investment has acquired a minority stake in Rubik's Brand (RBL), the UK-headquartered owner of the rights to the Rubik's Cube.
Financial details of the investment are undisclosed, though Bancroft typically writes equity cheques of €10-30m per transaction.
Following the deal, RBL will look to expand by diversifying its sales channels, product range and target markets. The business has experienced "multiple growth" in revenues over the course of the last five years, according to a statement, due to the launch of a global merchandise programme and partnerships with brands including Red Bull and Google.
As part of the transaction, RBL has introduced Marbel Toys founder and former managing director Christoph Bettin as CEO.
Company
Founded in 1980 and headquartered in London, RBL is the owner of the rights to the Rubik's Cube. According to Unquote sister publication Mergermarket, the business reported retail sales of $250m in 2018.
People
Bancroft Investment – Monika Lukacs (partner).
Rubik's Brand – Christoph Bettin (CEO); Ernõ Rubik (founder).
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