MML's BMB acquires Orion

Alice Murray
08 January 2016

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School uniform business Blue Max Banner (BMB), backed by MML Capital Partners, has acquired Orion Teamwear.

Prior to the deal, the two businesses had established a long-term relationship, with Orion providing BMB with a stock-supported range of professional sportswear garments through its brochure.

This latest deal saw Orion's founder Richard Metcalfe leave the business.

The transaction was supported with debt from BMB's incumbent lender Barclays.

Previous funding
MML backed the management buyout of BMB in July 2015. The deal saw previous founders and owners, the Fawcus family, sell their interest in the business.

Company
Orion is a bespoke sportswear business. Through its in-house design team, the company is able to produce bespoke logos or themes, or design complete kits for its customers. Orion operates an office and warehouse in Newcastle upon Tyne.

BMB was established in 1988 by Mary Fawcus. Having raised funds for the 1988 Equestrian Olympic Fund, Fawcus wanted to mail order a special commemorative sweatshirt.

The business has since grown through acquisitions. In 2006, BMB acquired Stag Knitwear, which saw the company expand into the formal schoolwear market. In the same year BMB acquired Medallion Sportswear. In 2010, BMB purchased the Banner and Beau Brummel schoolwear brands, which saw the business achieving combined turnover of £26m.

BMB is headquartered in Trowbridge, Wiltshire.

People
MML Capital Partners – Luke Jones (partner).
Blue Max Banner – Nigel Plenderleith (managing director).
Orion Teamwear – Mike Williams (brand manager).