Group48 buys accessories distributor Vimwood to widen its brand portfolio

What's the deal? Group48Dealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, the Australian owner of Colette by Colette HaymanDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, TDEDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, and Barcs AustraliaDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, has acquired VimwoodDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →, a local fashion and accessories distributor. Terms were not disclosed.

What each side brings: Vimwood distributes children's licensed and proprietary house brands to more than 3,500 retail doors across Australia and New Zealand. Its licences include Barbie, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, Batman, Harry Potter, Hot Wheels, and Spiderman.

What's the endgame? The deal adds Vimwood's licensed children's range to Group48's stable of accessories brands. Chief executive officer Marc Reid called it "an important step in our long-term growth strategy."

Why now? The acquisition comes 12 months after Group48 bought Colette by Colette Hayman and The Daily Edited (TDE), both of which fell into voluntary administration when their former owner collapsed. Both brands are now trading again, with Colette holding 13 spaces across David JonesDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom →.

The signal: Group48 is building an accessories group by buying distressed and complementary assets. Reid said Vimwood "built a respected business with an impressive portfolio that complements our existing brands and capabilities," pointing to a consolidation play across Australian fashion retail.

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