What: the acquisition of Topshop, Topman, Miss Selfridge & HIIT by British e-commerce giant Asos

Why it is important: following the collapse of UK retail group Arcadia in December 2020, and after many speculations on who would buy the bankrupt group out (Frasers Group, Authentic Brands Group), online player Asos eventually acquired four of the group’s strong fashion brands. With the move the online retailer is expanding its brand portfolio and its reach over UK’s retail landscape.

Nick Beighton, Asos CEO, commented: “The acquisition […] will help accelerate our multi-brand platform strategy [...]” The acquired brands were already sold on Asos.com and will join Asos Venture Brands portfolio alongside others (including Collusion, AsYou and Reclaimed Vintage), retaining their established brand and customer positioning. According to the press release, ASOS has acquired the intellectual property assets of Topshop, Topman, Miss Selfridge and HIIT; but does not mention the physical stores.

Acceleration of ASOS Brands strategy - Acquisition of Topshop, Topman, Miss Selfridge & HIIT

Related items:

• UK Arcadia Group files for bankruptcy
• The rise and fall of Topshop: what went wrong
• Business case: Frasers Group