Schoolblazer has confirmed a merger with Australia’s Hancock & Gore group, owner of the Mountcastle and LW Reid brands in Australia and Argyle in New Zealand, to create a global uniform group.

Schoolblazer has grown rapidly since its foundation in 2004 to become a dominant retailer to UK independent schools, with around 35% of the market. With an innovative online offering, a new approach to product and design, and the Limitless sportswear brand, it has transformed the offer for independent schools and their parents. This investment will see Schoolblazer continuing to develop and grow its UK operations and begin developing its offering in the Australian market.

Tim James, co-founder of Schoolblazer, will remain as chairman of the UK business. He will join the Hancock & Gore board and be the largest shareholder of Hancock & Gore. Louise Crofts, current MD of Schoolblazer, will remain in post alongside the existing management team. Robin Horsell, co-founder of Schoolblazer, will complete his retirement from the UK business but will play an active consultancy role in building Schoolblazer in Australia.

Commenting is Schoolblazer co-founder, Tim James.

“This is an exciting time for Schoolblazer and represents the next chapter of our growth story,” he says. “It gives opportunities for our team and our customers, bringing access to more product and better scale. There is genuine recognition from Hancock & Gore of the brand we have built and that is a credit to the whole Schoolblazer team. We are certain that this will allow us to bring more change and disruption to the market to the benefit of our customers and our people.”

Sandy Beard, chairman of Hancock & Gore in Australia, adds: “We are full of admiration for what Schoolblazer has achieved in the UK and are looking forward to bringing their skills and know-how to play in the Australian market”.

Schoolblazer was supported through the transaction by Polestar CF and Howes Percival. For further information on Schoolblazer, please click here.