Holdsport Group

Our role

In a landmark cross-border transaction, Investec acted as financial advisor to Holdsport Group (“Holdsport”), which is owned by Old Mutual Private Equity (“OMPE”) and the management team of Holdsport in the recently concluded agreement to sell the business to leading UK-based sports, premium and luxury brands international retailer, Frasers Group (“Frasers”). This transaction marks a significant milestone in the South African sporting goods retail sector and highlights Investec’s strong M&A capabilities in both the UK and South Africa, in bringing the transaction to fruition.

The acquisition of Holdsport by Frasers is a key strategic move that will help Frasers deepen its prominent regional presence in the sporting goods market across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). Frasers, which is listed on the London Stock Exchange with a market cap of £3.5bn, is renowned for its relationships with major global brands and its commitment to enhancing direct-to-consumer (D2C) strategies. By integrating Holdsport into its operations, Frasers aims to leverage synergies between its existing brands and the robust portfolio of Holdsport, which includes renowned names such as Sportsmans Warehouse, Outdoor Warehouse and Shelf Life, as well as its Performance Brands.

Investec’s M&A expertise in the consumer and retail sectors in both countries as well as relationships with the different parties was crucial in facilitating this transaction.

Marc Ackermann, Investec, commented: “This is an important transaction for South Africa and is a vote of confidence in the opportunity set within the South African economy, as well as in the quality of Holdsport’s business and management. Investec’s presence in both jurisdictions proved pivotal in this regard”.

Chumani Khula, Co-Head of OMPE, commented: “Investec’s knowledge of our business and the sector – both in South Africa and the UK – was invaluable in bringing our two businesses together”.

About Old Mutual Private Equity

Founded in 2000, OMPE is one of South Africa's largest and most established private equity managers, focusing on sourcing, investing, managing, and exiting private equity opportunities. The Holdsport Group, established in 1986, encompasses a diverse portfolio of retail, wholesale, manufacturing, distribution, and e-commerce businesses dedicated to the sports, outdoor, and recreation sectors.

Frasers Group

Frasers, founded in 1982, provides consumers with access to the world’s best Sports, Premium and Luxury brands with a vision to build the planet's most admired and compelling brand ecosystem. The acquisition of Holdsport is expected to create significant opportunities for manufacturing within Holdsport’s facilities, enabling growth in South Africa and across the African continent. Additionally, there is potential for exporting Holdsport brands to select international markets through Frasers' extensive network.