The long-standing owner of The Cotswold Company, the premium furniture and homewares brand, is paving the way for a sale after retaining investment bankers to oversee discussions with potential buyers.
Sky News has learnt that True, the private equity firm, recently appointed Rothschild-owned Arrowpoint Advisory to formulate a long-term disposal plan.
Sources said an auction of the premium handcrafted furniture retailer was not imminent, but acknowledged True was expected to pursue a sale in the next couple of years.
The investor has owned the business since 2016.
News of the prospective sale comes two weeks after The Cotswold Company reported a 30% rise in sales in the six months to August 30.
It said the rise had been driven by strong momentum behind the brand, as well as improvements to its digital offering.
Read more from Sky News:
Japan could run out of Asahi
Tinned tuna-owner to unveil £1.5bn float
Supplier’s plea over JLR cyber attack
The company has more than 250,000 active customers, and opened two new showrooms during the half-year period.
Ralph Tucker, The Cotswold Company’s chief executive, said it provided “alternatives to soulless and low-quality furniture”.
It recently recruited TV personality Will Kirk as its quality expert, which it hopes will cement its credentials as a seller of products known for their craftsmanship and sustainability.
True and The Cotswold Company declined to comment.
