JD Sports is thought to have acquired a majority stake in small independent clothing retailer Choice as it continues the rapid expansion of its portfolio.
As reported in Drapers, documents filed on Companies House revealed that three of JD Sports most senior directors have all become directors of Choice, which trades from fives stores across the south-east.
These include JD’s executive chairman Peter Cowgill, commercial director of fashion Peter Alecock and chief financial officer Brian Small.
Choice saw sales rise 19 per cent to £20.5 million in the year to April 30 2017, though pre-tax profits dropped 14 per cent to £389,265.
The retailer, which sells menswear and womenswear brands including Tommy Hilfiger, Stone Island and Calvin Klien, will be one of JD’s smallest acquisitions, joining brands including Size?, Footpatrol and Tessuti under the JD umbrella.
Choice was launched in 1993 by Laurence Davis, who is understood to be staying on as a director following the acquisition.
This morning it was revealed that JD Sports is also in the running to acquire cycling brand Evans, having tabled an offer last week.
It will compete with both Halfords and key high street rival Sports Direct.
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