Bury toymaker Sambro snapped up by private equity firm

Independent toy manufacturer Sambro has been acquired by London-based private equity firm Elysian Capital II LP.

The Bury-headquartered company, which holds partnerships with a number of global brands, including entertainment giant Disney and TV network Nickelodeon, was purchased after seeing its turnover more than double in the last three years to pass the £60m mark.

Sambro’s licensing director, Nikki Samuels, said: “It has always been our long-term vision to build Sambro into a market leading licensed products company and we have achieved that.

“This amazing partnership with Elysian Capital will allow us to realise our ambitious growth plans for the next few years and we look forward to working with them to take our business to a whole new level.”

He added: “They have made every effort to get to know our company from the ground up and their investment both in terms of financial and professional input will be invaluable.”

The firm runs a facility on Dumers Lane but also operates from offices in Amsterdam and Hong Kong. Founded in 1997, Sambro creates branded products such as toys, stationery and bags.

Elysian Capital CEO Ken Terry commented: “The Sambro team has done a fantastic job in creating a market leading licensed products business.

“We were attracted to the high growth delivered by the business, its in-house product design team and partnership approach with brand owners and retailers.”

He continued: “But most importantly we are backing a passionate team with tremendous ambitions for their business whether that be further organic growth or through acquisitions.

“This is a fitting first investment for our new fund that meets our desire to back aspirational management teams who would benefit from our differentiated and aligned approach.”

Elysian Capital was advised by professional services provider PwC, law firm Eversheds, insurance company Aon Group and supply chain consultancy Crimson & Co during the transaction.

Sambro’s shareholders and management team, meanwhile, were advised by auditor KPMG and law firm DLA Piper. Barclays Bank, with advice from legal practice Addleshaw Goddard, provided senior debt and working capital facilities.

Looking to promote your product/service to SME businesses in your region? Find out how Bdaily can help →