Birmingham advisers help tie-up shoe brand’s US acquisition

Harrys of London

Advisers based out of Birmingham have helped complete the acquisition of a luxury footwear brand by a New York-based media and real estate mogul.

The Midlands Transaction Services team at BDO provided financial and taxation due diligence on the purchase of Harrys of London by Charles S. Cohen.

Founded in 2001, Harrys is a London-based luxury footwear and accessories brand and retailer, selling into domestic and international markets. The investment will continue the brand’s global growth aspirations, in particular in the United States, Asia and the Middle East.

It is the second acquisition the Midlands BDO team has supported on behalf of Charles S. Cohen in the space of three months. BDO also advised on the investment in Richard James, the London-based high-end retailer of bespoke suits, menswear and accessories, which completed in March.

Harrys of London was advised by BDA Partners and Latham and Watkins, while Charles S. Cohen was also advised by Threadstone Partners and Pinsent Masons.

The deal sees Mr Cohen acquire a 100% interest in the shoe firm and he will assume the position of chairman, allowing him to play an active role in assisting on the global growth of the brand.

Mr. Cohen said “Harrys of London has been a brand I have supported and respected for a long time, bringing a unique mix of luxury, contemporary craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology and design.

“I am excited to have this once in a lifetime opportunity to partner with the brand and work closely with Steven and the rest of the team. We see huge potential for expansion across the US, London, Asia and the Middle East, and I am eager to help the team grow Harrys on a global scale.”

Harrys CEO Steven Newey will continue to lead the brand in his current role.

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