Equistone completes the acquisition of Vertbaudet from Alpha Private Equity

Equistone Partners Europe ("Equistone"), one of Europe’s leading mid-market private equity firms, announced today that it has acquired a majority stake in Vertbaudet, Europe’s leading e-commerce platform dedicated to childhood.

Following this transaction, Equistone now holds a majority stake in Vertbaudet, alongside the executive team. Through a robust omnichannel model – which has demonstrated resilience throughout the Covid-19 crisis – the Group expects to achieve a turnover of € 330 million in 2021. 

Since 2015, the executive team’s repositioning strategy has enabled the Group to develop its digital platform, which now accounts for more than 80% of the Group's sales today, grow internationally and expand its product range. From children’s clothing and shoes to childcare essentials, toys and decoration, Vertbaudet’s unique platform offers a comprehensive range of children’s products. Vertbaudet’s large and diverse product selection has allowed the company to expand its loyal customer base. Based in France, Vertbaudet operates a network of 75 stores across the country. Through its digital platform, Vertbaudet is also present in seven other countries: Germany, Great Britain, Belgium, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Spain and Portugal. These geographies account for 75% of the Group’s total sales.

Equistone intends to support the Group in expanding its growth strategy and achieving its ambition as a leading European platform for baby and children’s clothing, toys and other essentials.

Thierry Jaugeas, President of Vertbaudet, and Mathieu Hamelle, Chief Executive Officer, said: "We are delighted to partner with Equistone today. With their support and retail experience, we will continue to deploy our strategic plan, keep loyal customers and attract new ones through our various distribution channels, and further diversify our range of children’s products."

Arnaud Thomas and Grégoire Schlumberger, partners at Equistone, said: "We were impressed with the executive team's repositioning strategy. Vertbaudet’s omnichannel model has allowed it to thrive, even during lockdown periods. We look forward to supporting Vertbaudet as it continues to build growth momentum.”

After a particularly active first half of 2021 for Equistone, this transaction follows the firm’s acquisition of GSCM, exits from Adista and Charles & Alice, as well as twelve build-ups in France and Europe.