Shopping channel Ideal World has been sold to a pan-European equity company.
Aurelius Alpha Limited has purchased the retailer from previous owner Blackstone. Financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed.
The company runs two homeshopping channels, Ideal World and Create & Craft, which have operations in the UK and the United States. It’s based in Peterborough where its broadcast facility sits alongside the distribution centre.
Tristan Nagler, UK Managing Director of Aurelius, commented: “Ideal Shopping Direct is a dynamic company with a loyal customer base, established infrastructure and strong position in two distinct and growing markets within TV shopping; craft and general merchandise, presenting a compelling investment opportunity for Aurelius. We look forward to working alongside ISD’s experienced management team to provide the operational and financial support needed to help the business meet its potential.”
Aurelius intends to work with the company’s existing management team to implement a transformation programme across the business and raise its UK profile.
Bill Adams, CEO of Ideal Shopping Direct, said: “We are very pleased to be partnering with Aurelius, an investor with proven experience in the craft, TV shopping and omni-channel retail space. Its operational expertise and hands-on approach will significantly benefit ISD as we seek to reposition our business and achieve our growth objectives going forward.”
Aurelius Group is a pan-European asset manager with offices in Munich, London, Stockholm and Madrid.
