national law firm advises on Adams takeover

30th September 2009

HBJ Gateley Wareing has advised on the sale of childrenswear retailer Adams.

HBJ Gateley Wareing have advised John Shannon on the sale of the business to Pakistani business house, Habib Alvi Group.

Nuneaton-based Adams was founded more than 75 years ago by Birmingham businesswoman Amy Adams, who wanted to provide good value, top quality clothing for children. It has gone on to become a major name in the childrenswear market, with more than 200 stores across the UK and Ireland.

Lack of credit forced the retailer into administration in 2008, but its former owner, John Shannon, was quick to buy the company back. Habib Alvi now plans to build on the excellent consumer reputation of Adams and develop a business model that will help improve profitability going forward.

Mark Gibson, acting for the new owners, said:

“Adams is one of the Midlands’ most widely recognised companies, and this level of international investment is excellent news for the regional economy as a whole. The acquisition will set Adams on the right track towards greater profitability, helping to build a stable foundation for future growth.”

HBJ Gateley Wareing’s Birmingham-based corporate partner Chris Reed said:

“The successful sale of this iconic British retail brand means that an important part of our High Street heritage will continue and we wish the new owners all the best in their developing business plans.”