Global investment firm Permira, through its Permira Growth Opportunities II Fund, has agreed to acquire a minority stake in the French premium outerwear brand K-Way.
The amount of stake is not disclosed, but Reuters reports it to be around 40%. The remaining 60% stake will be held by BasicNet, a company led by the Boglione family.
K-Way, which developed the waterproof packable jacket, the "Claude", is known for its signature windbreakers, lifestyle fashion and sportswear products.
Since 2015, under the stewardship of BasicNet and the Boglione family, K-Way has seen a transformation in its retail presence, customer experience and product designs and quality.
The combined entity will support K-Way's growth strategy, which includes reinforcing brand leadership in France and Italy, opening new stores, expanding product ranges and pursuing international growth opportunities.
Permira's consumer team has invested more than €15bn across more than 40 companies worldwide, partnering with brands such as Golden Goose and Dr Martens.
Permira France principal and head Sebastien Floch stated: "We are thrilled to partner with the Boglione family and the team at K-Way. We have followed the business for a number of years and have found that K-Way is a brand with real scarcity value which encompasses everything the Permira Consumer team loves to back: an iconic brand and product, strong heritage and DNA, universal customer appeal and distinctive positioning. We look forward to bringing our experience and resources to the table to support K-Way's continued success and its global expansion plans.”
The deal is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025.
The acquisition process was facilitated by legal counsel from Giliberti Triscornia e Associati, financial advice from EY, fiscal guidance from Maisto e Associati and commercial insights from Bain & Company.