The expected collapse of the high street retailers Claire’s and The Original Factory Shop, with 2,550 jobs at risk, has put the previously little-known investment firm Modella Capital in the spotlight.
The UK-based firm, which bought the two troubled chains within the last year, was set up by a group of restructuring professionals four years ago and has risen to prominence.
It bought the arts and crafts retailer Hobbycraft in August 2024 and last March agreed to buy the high street business of WH Smith, now renamed TG Jones.
Modella has stepped into a gap in the market for investors in medium-sized struggling retailers left by the likes of Hilco, which once bought HMV and Homebasebut has now moved on. It has chosen to take risks on troubled businesses with few potential buyers as private equity is largely steering clear of a tough consumer market.
In its short existenc
Continue Reading on The Guardian
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.