Hamleys being sold for £100million to Hong Kong footwear retailer
C.Banner International – a Hong Kong based retailer of women’s footware is reported to be offering £100million for buying Hamleys, the iconic British toy shop which celebrates its 255th birthday.
Hamleys, known for its seven storey toy store where Father Christmas will greet children and fulfil their dreams. Hamlets have expanded and opened in Moscow, across UK adding stores in Cardiff, Manchester and Glasgow and considering expansion into the US. Hamleys was issued with a second Royal warrant by Queen Elizabeth II, who bought toys of her children in 1955.
C.Banner’s chairman Chen Yixi, who says “A strong brand is an outstanding resource. Acqyision of a world-renowned brand could greatly enhance company’s competitive advantages.” C.Brand sells designer brands including Sundance and MIO. The other quintessentially British landmarks changed into foreign ownerships including House of Fraser which was bought by Chinese conglomerate Sanpower, Harrods is now owned by Qatar Holdings, Hong Kong Bae Dickson Concepts owns Harvey Nichols, and Royal Tailor Gieves & Hawkes is owned by Trinity Ltd.
Hamleys last changed hands in 2012 when it was bought by a French company , Groupe Ludendo. Hamleys started in 1760 when William Hamley opened a toy shop in London –later opening a second bigger store on Regent Street