Family-owned footwear firm Gardiner Bros is expanding its European operations with the acquisition of a Belgium-based distributor.
Gardiner Bros, of Quedgeley in Gloucestershire, has acquired fellow family firm Dubois in what its boss called an “incredibly exciting milestone” for both firms.
The Gardiners group, which also includes Footsure Western, traces its history back to 1860 and today bills itself as the largest Ƶ family-owned distributor to the footwear trade.
Third-generation family firm Dubois was founded in 1951 by Jean Dubois and is today the official distributor for footwear and clothing brands including Aigle, CAT Footwear, Dickies, Berghen, and Gant. Dubois – based in Nivelles, just south of Brussels – will now add Timberland Pro, Hard Yakka, Amblers Safety, and Base London to its growing portfolio after the Gardiners deal.
Gardiners group CEO, James Gardiner, said: “This new chapter in our international growth journey is an incredibly exciting milestone for the entire team at Gardiners. Expanding into the European market alongside a trusted partner like Dubois significantly strengthens Gardiners position as the go-to supplier that unites trusted brands and retailers.
“We’re bringing together two highly complementary businesses grounded with deep consumer understanding and shared values. At the core of our partnership is our mutual dedication to fostering authentic long-term relationships with our customers and a shared ambition to place sustainability and ethical practices at the forefront of our mission.”
Dubois Jean-Jacques Vankeerberghen, said: “The acquisition of Dubois by the Gardiners Group is a fantastic opportunity for the company to grow its business with existing and new brands in Benelux and the whole of Europe. Our shared values are important to me as we progress the integration of the two historical family businesses.”
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