Historic music retailer Dawsons changes hands for third time in three years
Music retailer, Dawsons, which was founded in Warrington 125 years ago, has been acquired by Vista Musical Instruments, which has a UK base in Crawley.
Vista, part of Singapore-based Caldecott Music Group, says its acquisition of Dawsons marks a significant milestone as it brings its expertise and resources in music retail to the UK.
It said it is committed to preserving the legacy of Dawsons while injecting fresh energy and innovation into the brand.
The relaunch will pay homage to the brand’s heritage, while unveiling a modern and captivating aesthetic, it pledged.
The omni-channel experience built by, and for, musicians and music obsessives will feature an expansive selection of music equipment, accessories, lifestyle products and merchandise.
The return of Dawsons under Caldecott Music Group, which also owns NME Networks, will create unique cross-brand opportunities for the next generation of musicians and music fans.
Meng Ru Kuok, Vista Musical Instruments CEO, said: “As one of the oldest music retailers in the UK, Dawsons holds a special place in the hearts of musicians and fans alike around the country.
“Countless musicians have found their first instruments or made their initial foray into the world of music through Dawsons.
“This legacy of nurturing talent and supporting aspiring musicians remains an integral part of Dawsons’ identity and something we care about deeply at Vista Musical Instruments. With such a rich heritage, and our ability as a group to rebuild this legacy name and supply an extensive, high quality product range, the business aligns perfectly with our family of brands and vision for Vista Musical Instruments and we are proud to leverage our extensive retail experience as stewards of the brand’s future.”
Dawsons was sold out of administration in May 2020, and then again, 16 months later in September 2021, when it was significantly downsized.
Prior to its second sale it operated online and via six retail stores in Manchester, Liverpool, Chester, Leeds, Reading and Belfast.
Following the 2021 buyout by Arranged Musical Options Ltd, the Dawsons business shrank to trade from one store in Chester, as well as retaining its warehouse facility in Haydock.
