Global Investment firm Carlyle announced that it has agreed to acquire Dainese Group, the maker of protective equipment for motorcycling and extreme sports, from Investcorp and Lino Dainese. Cristiano Silei will remain as CEO of the company. The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals.
Founded in 1972 and headquartered in Vicenza, Italy, Dainese Group has 36 stores across 7 countries. AGV, founded in 1917 and acquired by Dainese in 2007, is a maker in motorcycling helmets. TCX, a maker of motorcycling shoes, was acquired by the Dainese Group 2020.
Leveraging its experience in the consumer sector, Carlyle aims to support Dainese’s international expansion, particularly in China and the U.S., by investing in its DTC distribution channels as well as M&A.
Equity for the investment will be provided by Carlyle Europe Partners (CEP). The investment in Dainese builds on its global focus on the consumer market in which the firm has invested more than $20 billion. A core component of its strategy has been to grow brands, including Moncler, Golden Goose, Design Holding and END through international expansion.
Massimiliano Caraffa, managing director leading consumer & retail for the CEP advisory team, said: “We were attracted by the company’s unique brand identity, long heritage and leadership in innovation. Leveraging our global network and expertise in scaling consumer brands, we are excited to support Dainese in the next chapter of its growth journey, building upon its distinctive customer-centric ‘head-to-toe’ product offering and unmatched technical excellence.”
Cristiano Silei, CEO, Dainese Group, said: “In Carlyle, I am delighted that we have found a partner that understands and appreciates the core values and vision for the growth of the Group. With their track record and expertise in this sector, I am confident that we have found the ideal partner to help achieve our ambitious goals for growth and further internationalization.”
Carlyle was advised by Bank of America, DVR Capital, Unicredit (M&A), and Latham & Watkins (Legal).
