Tue, 04 Jun 2013 | DIVISION SALE
Hotel Chocolat, the upmarket chocolatier, is thought to be considering using a stake sale to help fund international expansion plans.
The business is reportedly on the hunt for franchise partners in northern and central Europe, South and North America and the Far East. The firm's online prospectus stated: "We are targeting key markets where we believe our brand will successfully resonate with local consumers.
"The expansion of our own stores will be supported through a global network of franchise partners."
PwC was hired last year in order to evaluate unsolicited bids for Hotel Chocolat. But it has now emerged that the accountant has held talks with potential private equity buyers with the exploration of a minority stake sale in the business in mind. The deal could value the company at more than £100 million and should go a fair way to financing the expansion.
In addition to overseas growth, the retailer is looking at expanding its 67 stores in the UK. It is already refitting a number of outlets to its Roast + Conch café and shop format, but it is also expected to develop its online services and is even exploring the option of a fine-dining restaurant in London.
The business was founded by Thirlwell and Peter Harris in 2003 and enjoyed an 84 per cent surge in pre-tax profits in the 12 months to June 2012.
____________________________________________________________________________
Related articles:
Evaluating a target company
The company is a vehicle accident repair centre offering general bodywork repair and other related services, including wheel alignment, air conditioning re-gas and windscreen / glass replacement. Repairs are completed to manufacturer standard by trai...
The company is a furniture and equipment hire company catering to the events industry, offering a vast stock portfolio of tables, chairs, table linen, crockery, cutlery, glassware and kitchen equipment.
Established mechanical services contractor offering a variety of HVAC, plumbing and renewables services, including heat pump installation and heat recovery ventilation.
25
|
Apr
|
Ambulance services provider acquired in pre-pack deal | BUSINESS SALE
Elite Emergency Medical Services Ltd (Elite EMS), an ambulan...
25
|
Apr
|
Tile business old to management team by Norcros | MBO/MBI
Johnson Tiles UK, a tile business based in Stoke-on-Trent, h...
25
|
Apr
|
New private equity owner for fleet hire firm | BUSINESS SALE
West Lancashire-based fleet hire business NRG Riverside has ...
27
|
Jan
|
Paperchase set to be rescued in pre-pack acquisition | BUSINESS SALE
High-street stationer Paperchase is set to be acquired by Pe...
06
|
Jan
|
Paperchase close to administration amid “unbearable strain” of lockdown | ADMINISTRATION
Cards and stationary retailer Paperchase has filed notice of...
27
|
Oct
|
Dog treats company acquired by Spectrum Brands | BUSINESS SALE
Nottingham-based pet treat and toy maker Armitage Pet Care h...
Business Sale Report is your complete solution to finding great acquisition opportunities.
Join today to receive:
All this and much more, including the latest M&A news and exclusive resources
Please choose your settings for this site below. For more information please read our Cookie Policy
These cookies are necessary for our website to function properly and provide you with access to all features.
These are analytics cookies that help us to improve the way our website works.
These are used to improve the functional performance of the website and make it easier for you to use.