The first acquisition, for a majority share, has been completed in Models 1, the UK and Europe’s largest model and talent agency, boasting iconic models like model of the year Agyness Deyn, Amber Valetta, Linda Evangelista, Yasmin le Bon, Karolina Kurkova and Twiggy. Models 1 was founded in 1968 with just three talents on its books. Now in its fortieth year, the Company has grown to become the largest and most successful agency in Europe and one of the top and most respected agencies in the world.
Andrew Nikou said, “This is our first major step into a new and vital industry. Models 1 presents all the attractive fundamentals any investor admires; rich brand equity, a seasoned management team, a profitable business, fabulous models, and a superstar set of clients and customers which has grown Models 1 into Europe’s number one agency. One Worldwide plans to become a global holding company and has an aggressive expansion policy based on synergistic acquisitions to build the group."
John Horner, CEO of Models 1 added, “Models 1 had been approached by a multitude of interested acquirers over the past year, but we were convinced by Andrew Nikou’s vision and natural fit with our Company. Going forward, the new group plans to build the business through selected acquisitions in strategically aligned businesses, enabling brand extension into new territories and a stronger and more international, organizational footprint.”
About Models 1
Models1 is the leading model and talent agency in Europe, providing many high profile models to major customers such as Marks and Spencer, Prada, Giorgio Armani, Addidas, Elle, Gucci, Vogue and MTV to name a few. Models on their books include model of the year Agyness Deyn, Linda Evangelista, Yasmin Le Bon, Karolina Kurkova, Twiggy, Angie Everhart, Leah Wood and Noemie Lenoir. Models 1 was founded in 1968 with just three talents on its books. Now in its fortieth year, the Company has grown to become the largest and most successful agency in Europe as well as one of the most highly regarded agencies worldwide.
For more information on Models 1, please visit our website at www.models1.co.uk.
About OpenGate Capital
OpenGate Capital is an opportunistic private equity firm that acquires controlling interests in businesses with solid fundamentals which exhibit opportunities for operational improvements and growth. Established in 2005, OpenGate Capital has a global footprint with headquarters in Beverly Hills, California and a principal office in Paris, France. OpenGate is served by a seasoned team of M&A and operating professionals that bring the skills needed to acquire, operate and build successful companies. The partners of OpenGate have executed over 50 transactions worldwide ranging from corporate divestitures, turnaround acquisitions, industry consolidations and other special situations investments across a wide array of industries and geographical markets.
For more information on OpenGate Capital, please visit our website at www.opengatecapital.com.