Souter Investments, the family investment office of transport tycoon Sir Brian Souter, is part of a consortium which has bought the luxury fragrance and interiors brand Clive Christian.
The business has been acquired for an undisclosed price by EME Investments 5 Ltd whose stakeholders include Souter Investments, Sir Brian’s sister Ann Gloag and veteran private equity investor Jon Moulton.
Clive Christian, who will continue to hold a stake in the business he founded in 1978, will become creative director while Amy Nelson-Bennett, the former chief executive of Molton Brown, becomes chief executive.
Calum Cusiter of Souter Investments said: “We are no stranger to investing in luxury brands having been part of the syndicate that successfully invested in Sunseeker, the luxury motor yacht manufacturer.
“Clive Christian is one of the most respected luxury fragrance brands in the world and we look forward to playing our part in growing the business in the UK and around the globe.”
Makers of the world’s most expensive perfume, the brand is available in the world’s most exclusive stores including Harrods, Fortnum & Mason and Saks Fifth Avenue. It also has close associations with members of the Royal Family.
The brand is also used in furnishings and interiors.
Mr Christian said: “We have evolved to the stage where we now require new expertise and significant investment to move the brand forward in a progressive manner and I want to ensure succession plans are in place as well as a management structure that enables us to better grasp opportunities as they arise in market. I have retained a minority shareholding and will continue to be actively involved in the business.”
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