Reliance Brands Limited, a subsidiary of Reliance Industries and C Banner International Holdings has acquired 100% shares of Hamleys Global Holdings Limited, the parent of Hamleys brand from C Banner International.
Founded in 1760, Hamleys has served little children for over 250 years, establishing itself as one of the oldest and largest toy shops in the world.
The joy of entering a Hamleys toy store makes for visual and emotive appeal. With 167 stores, spread across 18 countries, Hamleys has become a mammoth and important player in the toy retail industry.
This acquisition will allow Reliance Brands to stay ahead of the game in the niche toy segment.
Speaking on this new venture, Darshan Mehta, President and CEO of Reliance Brands, said, ” Over the last few years, we have built a very significant and profitable business in toy retailing under Hamleys brand in India. This 250 year old English toy retailer pioneered the concept of experimental retailing, decades before the concept of creating unique experiences in brick and mortar retailing became the global norm. “
Hamleys inaugurated its flagship Regent Street London store in 1881. This store is all of seven floors and encompasses a distance of 54,000 sq.ft with more than 50,000 lines of toys for sale. 5 million visitors come each year to catch a glimpse of this store and its toys, events, parades, demonstrations and massive displays.
Mehta added, “The worldwide acquisition of the iconic Hamleys brand and business, places Reliance into the frontline of global retail. Personally it is a long cherished dream come true.”
