Background
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The Sanctuary combines the UK’s largest and most prestigious women-only day spa with one of the UK’s leading female bodycare products businesses
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In 2004, HgCapital were advised (not by Close Brothers) on the acquisition of both the physical spa (The Sanctuary Spa) and the products business (The Sanctuary Connections)
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The acquisition provided the opportunity to manage and control both the physical spa business and the products business under one roof and an ability to leverage the brand equity
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Following two years of significant investment, HgCapital asked Close Brothers to assist in the disposal of the enlarged business
Process
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Implemented a two-stage auction process, contacting selected trade and private equity buyers, negotiated the terms of the sale, advised on tactics, assisted management in securing their roles in the enlarged group, oversaw the due diligence process and ensured that all other advisers performed in accordance with a tight timetable
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The transaction took just 3 months to complete from initial contact with buyers through to completion
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Minimal alterations to the sale and purchase agreement accepted
Outcome
PZ Cussons, the UK-listed personal care company, acquired the Company on 28 January for £75 million (2.8x Sales and 10.8x EBITDA).
Testimonials
Linda Wilding, Chairman of The Sanctuary, commented:
“The Close Brothers team worked very hard to run a smooth and very successful process. Knowledge of the buyer community, both trade and private equity, important strategic decisions and the ability to create a bespoke process enabled a fast sale at an excellent price.”
Richard Mathews of HgCapital, Board member of The Sanctuary, commented:
“Given the tough debt markets and falling consumer confidence, HgCapital was delighted with the result achieved by Close Brothers on the sale of The Sanctuary. The team worked tirelessly to ensure the best possible outcome for the shareholders.”