Weird Fish owner ups stake, preps for acquisition spree

Total Capital Partners (TCP) has reportedly increased its stake in Weird Fish to 80 percent ahead of rolling out plans to expand its portfolio.

The firm first invested in Weird Fish in 2017, setting out on a mission to build on the brand’s existing presence through new stores and an expanded product range.

Now, TCP has doubled down on its commitment to the clothing and lifestyle label, while also bringing it under a new group called Auralis, according to a report by The Times.

The media outlet said Auralis has put aside 50 million pounds to invest in other high street retailers looking for funding to grow their business. FashionUnited has contacted TCP for more information.

The subsidiary will be led by Weird Fish’s chief executive officer, David Butler. The brand itself is reportedly valued at 35 million pounds, with 37 stores across the UK.

At the beginning of the year, TCP had reported financial performance that had “significantly surpassed expectations” for Weird Fish, driving the company to eye “ambitious plans for both domestic and international expansion” .

At the time, Butler said he could envision 80 or 90 stores across the UK, where there is a particular focus on market, commuter or wealthy towns. Weird Fish was also preparing to enter the US market through partnerships with Nordstrom and Macy’s.