We’re pleased to have advised UK-based digital publishing group Sheerluxe on its sale to Future plc – a global platform for specialist media – in a multimillion-pound deal.
Founded by Georgie Coleridge Cole in 2007 as a directory of online retailers, SheerLuxe has evolved into a digital publisher in women's fashion and lifestyle. It now comprises a portfolio of digital brands that reaches an audience of more than six million.
The acquisition is for an initial cash consideration of £39.9 million, with an earn-out conditional on future performance.
The acquisition further strengthens Future’s fashion and beauty offering, which already includes major titles such as Marie Claire and Who What Wear. The group, which owns price comparison business GoCompare, plans to launch SheerLuxe in the US using its existing relationships and capabilities.
Our Corporate team, led by Partner Jon Gillow, Legal Director Olivia Jones and Associate Michael Truman, provided lead sell-side advice to Sheerluxe and its management team.
SheerLuxe is an exceptional digital publishing success story, and this transaction reflects the strength of the brand they have built. Future is an excellent strategic partner, and we are proud to have played a part in helping position the business for its next phase of growth in the UK and internationally.Jon Gillow
Partner at Hill Dickinson
Georgie Coleridge Cole, Founder of SheerLuxe, said: "Joining Future represents a huge milestone for SheerLuxe. Since it was founded in 2007, SheerLuxe has become an authoritative voice on fashion, beauty, culture and lifestyle focused on inspiring, educating and entertaining our fast-growing audience. With its innovative approach to media, Future is a natural home for us, and we are excited about what we can achieve working with the team."
Jon Gillow, Partner at Hill Dickinson, said: “SheerLuxe is an exceptional digital publishing success story, and this transaction reflects the strength of the brand they have built. Future is an excellent strategic partner, and we are proud to have played a part in helping position the business for its next phase of growth in the UK and internationally.”