Done deal—Finish Line acquired
The largest sporting goods retailer in the U.K., JD Sports Fashion plc, has completed its acquisition of The Finish Line.
Under the terms of the agreement, Finish Line has become an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of JD Sports. The deal was announced in March and valued at $558 million. JD Sports operates more than 1,400 stores globally across various banners.
“This marks a momentous step in JD Sports’ global expansion and represents an exciting opportunity to bring our market leading, multi-brand retail proposition to the world’s largest athleisure market, both online and in stores,” said Peter Cowgill, executive chairman of JD Sports. “Our team will now collaborate with the experienced Finish Line management team and the key global brands to bring best in class retail theatre and multi-channel consumer experience to the U.S.”
Finish Line has approximately 556 stores, mostly in malls, and 375 in-store shops inside Macy’s department stores. The retailer has been updating its flagships to a new format that puts technology at the center of the store's total experience, creating immersive customer interactions.
Sam Sato, CEO of Finish Line, said that, with the completion of the deal, Finish Line “opens an exciting new chapter.” The chain’s current management is expected to stay in place.
“With a global footprint, together we will bring leading-edge innovation and service to our customers,” Sato stated. “Our shared vision and drive to provide a premium retail experience will further our impact as a leading, premium multichannel retailer of sports, fashion and outdoor brands.”
Under the terms of the agreement, Finish Line has become an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of JD Sports. The deal was announced in March and valued at $558 million. JD Sports operates more than 1,400 stores globally across various banners.
“This marks a momentous step in JD Sports’ global expansion and represents an exciting opportunity to bring our market leading, multi-brand retail proposition to the world’s largest athleisure market, both online and in stores,” said Peter Cowgill, executive chairman of JD Sports. “Our team will now collaborate with the experienced Finish Line management team and the key global brands to bring best in class retail theatre and multi-channel consumer experience to the U.S.”
Finish Line has approximately 556 stores, mostly in malls, and 375 in-store shops inside Macy’s department stores. The retailer has been updating its flagships to a new format that puts technology at the center of the store's total experience, creating immersive customer interactions.
Sam Sato, CEO of Finish Line, said that, with the completion of the deal, Finish Line “opens an exciting new chapter.” The chain’s current management is expected to stay in place.
“With a global footprint, together we will bring leading-edge innovation and service to our customers,” Sato stated. “Our shared vision and drive to provide a premium retail experience will further our impact as a leading, premium multichannel retailer of sports, fashion and outdoor brands.”