The Very Group, the operator of digital retailers Very and Littlewoods, announced the completion of a significant ownership transition, under which global investment firm Carlyle has become the company’s owner. And international media group IMI remains a key stakeholder. The agreement is designed to strengthen the company’s capital base and provide increased financial flexibility to support its long-term growth strategy.
The new ownership structure reflects continuing confidence from Carlyle and IMI in The Very Group’s management team, brand portfolio, strategic direction, and future growth trajectory. Both groups have supported the business since 2021 and intend to work closely with leadership to drive further innovation, leveraging technology and data to enhance the customer experience.
This transaction also marks the end of the Barclay family’s involvement with The Very Group after two decades of stewardship. Over this period, the business evolved from a catalog-based model to become one of the United Kingdom’s largest digitally driven retail companies. The transition follows the release of the company’s recent full-year results, which reported record earnings growth across both retail and financial services operations.
The company’s leadership emphasized that the strengthened financial position will enable increased investment in technology and further advancement of customer-facing initiatives, supporting continued momentum in the current growth cycle.
KEY QUOTE:
“This marks an important milestone for The Very Group as we move into an exciting new phase of growth. We are delighted to continue to partner with Carlyle and IMI. Their continued backing provides us with a stronger foundation to execute on our strategy, increase investment in technology and the customer experience, and to build on the momentum across the business. I’d like to thank the Barclay family for their stewardship and contribution to the Company over the past two decades.”
Robbie Feather, Group CEO, The Very Group
