Schoolblazer today announced a merger with Australia’s Hancock & Gore group, owner of the Mountcastle and LW Reid brands in Australia and Argyle in New Zealand to create a global uniform group.
Schoolblazer have grown rapidly since their foundation in 2004 to become the dominant retailer to UK independent schools with around 35% of the market. With an innovative online offering, a new approach to product and design and Limitless sportswear brand they have transformed the offer for independent schools and their parents. This investment will see Schoolblazer continuing to develop and grow their UK operations and begin developing their unique offering in the Australian market.
Tim James, CoFounder of Schoolblazer will remain as Chairman of the UK business. He will join the Hancock & Gore board and be the largest shareholder of Hancock & Gore. Louise Crofts, currently MD of Schoolblazer will remain in post alongside the existing management team. Robin Horsell, CoFounder of Schoolblazer will step back and complete his retirement from the UK business, but will play an active consultancy role in building Schoolblazer in Australia.
Said Tim James, – “This is an exciting time for Schoolblazer and represents the next chapter of our growth story. It gives opportunities for our team and our customers, bringing access to more product and better scale. There is genuine recognition from Hancock & Gore of the brand we have built and that is a credit to the whole Schoolblazer team. We are certain that this will allow us to bring more change and disruption to the market, to the benefit of our customers and our people.”
Sandy Beard Chairman of Hancock & Gore in Australia said, “We are full of admiration for what Schoolblazer have achieved in the UK and are looking forward to bringing their skills and know-how to play in the Australian market”.
Schoolblazer were supported through the transaction by Polestar CF and Howes Percival.
Categories: Sector News
