Frasers Group has entered a strategtic partnership by acquiring a majority sharedholding in an Italian retailer as it continues with European expansion.

The group has entered an agreement to acquire a majority share in Maxi Sport SpA, a premium multisport retailer operating across Italy.

Its owners Emanuele Sala, Giovanni Sala, Ester Sala and Giulia Sala, will retain a shareholding and stay on the leadership team throughout the next phase of growth.

Maxi Sport has 18 stores across Italy, including six flagships, and offers an extensive range of products such as extreme sports and winter gear. Frasers Group’s role is to access additional growth opportunities for Sports Direct stores in Italy in the future.

The news arrives after Frasers Group acquired sports business Hervis Hungary and Hervis Romania to add over 75 stores to its portfolio in Central Europe and provides customers with access to Sports Direct also.

Frasers chief executive Michael Murray said: “Maxi Sport represents the pinnacle of premium sports retail in Italy, and this partnership is the next phase of that journey.

“I look forward to working with Emanuele, Giovanni, Ester, Giulia and their team, bringing our international experience and strong brand relationships together with their regional expertise to grow Maxi Sport’s unique offering and also launch Sports Direct in Italy in the future.”

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