Landmark sale of iconic British performance apparel brand concludes

Gill Marine is an iconic British performance apparel brand, with a global distribution network. Industry leaders, they design technical clothing for elite marine enthusiasts, and have been at the forefront of product design, pushing technical capabilities for more than 4 decades, creating a brand synonymous with innovation.

The business was sold to the Myers Family Office and Pop Capital for an undisclosed amount, supported by YFM Equity Partners, one of the UK’s leading independently owned private equity investors who work alongside management teams to create long-term value for investors.

Smith Cooper’s advisory team, led by Corporate Finance Partner Dan Bowtell, provided buy-side support to the management team, including deal structuring and advice on the tax implications of the sale of shares and the reinvestment into newco.

Dan Bowtell, Corporate Finance Partner at Smith Cooper comments: “We are privileged to have worked with the management team, who have ambitious plans for the business and are certainly capable of accelerating the growth of the brand. I am confident the team have the ability to drive Gill Marines’ success even further, maximising its value.”

Smith Cooper Corporate Finance were named the Midlands SME Advisory Team of the Year 2018, and the transaction marks the 30th deal to be completed this year.

Transactional legal support was provided by Browne Jacobson, who also advised the buy-side management team.