Clearwater has advised the shareholders of toy and gift retailer Tobar Group on their sale to Merino Private Equity.
Tobar Group, headquartered in Norwich, was established in 1973; its retail operation comprises of Hawkin’s Bazaar stores and website, and the seasonal website Stocking Fillers. Hawkin’s Bazaar currently has 30 permanent stores located throughout the UK, and opened an additional 11 temporary stores this Christmas.
The company’s wholesale operation supplies a range of customers from national retailers and supermarkets to independent stores and museums, with high quality and innovative toys and gifts for all ages. Its product range includes Tobar brand products and a range of products that Tobar distributes on behalf of other manufacturers. Tobar distributes its toys worldwide, and has recently established a French office to support sales in Europe.
Merino will be supporting the existing management led by David Mordecai, CEO, and Glyn Loveday, FD, with Mark Colley of Merino joining the board.
