Entrepreneur Micheal O’Rourke’s TDL, an Irish investment entity that also owns Shelbourne FC and Premier sports, will soon dominate a renowned clothing and equipment manufacturer famously known for its products targeted towards equestrian and outdoor enthusiasts. The company has bought a significant controlling stake in UK’s Finest Brands Holdings Ltd, the parent company of Champion, Toggi and ProLine Sports, renowned producers of protective apparel and equipment.
Finest Brands had been established by John and Bridget Ayres during the 70s with the aim to provide quality, better helmets for their horse-riding daughters and the equestrian community. This gave birth to Champion horse riding helmets, a brand now known for making superior headgear and body protectors for the equestrian sports industry.
Former Irish jockey Ruby Walsh, a well-known name, who has won two Cheltenham Gold Cups and two Aintree Grand Nationals, serves as the brand ambassador for Champion.
Another brand produced by Finest Brands, Toggi, provides clothing and shoes. They are known for supporting the British Equestrian Federation by supplying their riders and teams, and claim to have clothed personalities varying from Olympians to royals.
The third brand, ProLine Sports, supplies protective gear and medical supports for athletes, and for those who are fond of outdoor activities. All these brands are designed in-house by the British group, who have their own testing lab for Champion helmets. The manufacturing of these ranges takes place in Cardiff, Wales while the head office and sales operation is situated in Leeds, Northern England.
After the demise of founder John Ayres in 2013, the Ayres family continued to run the business. However, they believe it is now time to let go. Despite its rich history, TDL aims to focus on the future, says Mr O’Rourke.
Sarah-Jane Fedarb, the Managing Director, revealed that the decision was tough for the family but it is comforting to know that TDL shared the same values as Finest Brands.
The investment company, TDL, is known for its strategic investments in media, sports and technology domains and aims to obtain majority or minority control in the businesses they invest in. The specifics of this transaction have not been disclosed, but it is understood that TDL is purchasing a controlling stake for a seven-figure price.
The portfolio consists of a diverse range of entities including Irish football squad Shelbourne FC, sports broadcasters Premier Sports Ireland and Premier Sports Asia, women’s sporting network W Sport, and Scottish ice hockey team Glasgow Clan. They also have a minority interest in Future Ticketing, a company specialising in ticketing software development, Joe Media, a digital publishing firm and Finance Fair, an alternate financial solution provider. This text is written in British English and maintains a different syntax and vocabulary from the original content.