From rumours to confirmation. Carlyle has acquired the Dainese group. The U.S. investment company announced it on March 11, 2022, explaining that the transaction provides that Cristiano Silei will remain in his role as CEO. The note in which Carlyle announces that it has completed the acquisition does not contain details of the terms or the economic agreement. However, in recent months, analysts had set a value for the Vicenza-based group, which produces clothing and accessories for motorcycling and dynamic sports, at around 750 million euros.
From rumours to confirmation
Carlyle has therefore reached an agreement with Investcorp and Lino Dainese, after the rumours of the recent months. As well as the latest rumours that Carlyle was in pole position over other suitors. The closing of the operation is subject to the approval of the competent Antitrust Authorities. Founded in 1972 and headquartered in Vicenza, the Dainese Group now has 36 direct shops. The group also includes AVG (motorbike helmets, acquired by Dainese in 2007) and TCX (motorbike shoes, that joined the company in 2020). This group has a total of 1,000 employees.
The strategy
This operation will be paid for by Carlyle Europe Partners V (CEP V), a fund with a 6.4 billion euros endowment. “The Dainese operation is a further piece of Carlyle’s long-term global strategy in the consumer sector. Here the company has so far invested more than 20 billion dollars, focusing on brand growth through international development, as done for Moncler, Golden Goose, Design Holding and END. Carlyle will support Dainese’s international expansion, particularly in China and the US, by investing in Dainese’s direct distribution channels and through M&A operations”.
The comments
“We were fascinated by Dainese’s strong brand identity, long history and leadership in innovation. Leveraging our global network and experience in consumer brand development, we are excited to partner with the company in the next chapter of its growth journey,” said Massimiliano Caraffa of Carlyle. “I am delighted to have found in Carlyle a partner that appreciates and shares the core values and growth vision of the group,” comments Cristiano Silei. “With their experience and expertise in this area, I believe we have found the ideal partner to achieve our ambitious growth objectives”.
Read also:
