Superdry founder Dunkerton courts US investor to take brand private

According to Sky News, Davidson Kempner, which has backed a number of UK retailers including Oak Furnitureland and Jojo Maman Bébé, is in talks about an offer for Superdry. 

Discussions are understood to be at a preliminary stage and there’s no guarantee an agreement will be reached. 

Equity and debt financier Retail Realisation is also believed to be interested in Superdry. 

As troubled Superdry draws up plans to close stores and cut jobs, it emerged earlier this month that Dunkerton wanted to buy the majority stake he doesn’t already own. 

Dunkerton is understood to own less than 30% of the shares since rejoining the business in 2019, and the retailer told markets at the start of the month it was “exploring the possibility of making an offer for the company” and was in talks with potential financing partners.

In a statement published on the London Stock Exchange, Superdry confirmed that Dunkerton is “considering options in respect of the company”, which may include a cash offer.

Superdry said in a statement: “There can be no certainty that an offer will be made, nor as to the terms on which any such offer might be made.”

It added that Dunkerton must announce his intention either way by March 1, 2024.