finnCap Cavendish, part of finnCap Group plc, is delighted to announce it has advised the shareholders of William Morris London, the iconic British eyewear brand, on a sale of shares to Design Eyewear Group. The price and other terms have not been disclosed.

Following the transaction, Robert Morris, who founded William Morris London in 1996, will continue as Founder and Senior Brand Ambassador. As well as Robert’s ongoing creative input to product design and brand at William Morris London, he will help the customers and employees of the Design Eyewear Group gain an insight into William Morris London’s DNA and British design philosophy.

The deal was led by Jonathan Buxton, Partner and Mike Dinsdale, Director, supported by Leo Holdsworth, Senior Analyst.

Robert Morris, Founder and Creator of William Morris, commented:

“I’m excited that William Morris London is now joining a very professional and global company like Design Eyewear Group.

I’m very proud of the development William Morris London has undergone since it all began more than 25 years ago. I’m also convinced that Design Eyewear Group is the right partner to grow the company further through their established global sales network.”

Lars Flyvholm, CEO of Design Eyewear Group, commented:

“I’m proud that Design Eyewear Group has announced the takeover of such a reputable company with strong and exciting brands. With the acquisition of William Morris London, we’ve strengthened our position as a design brand house, and we’re pursuing our ambition to become one of the world’s leading multi-brand providers of design eyewear to independent opticians.

William Morris London’s brands each have a unique story based on the British design philosophy. The brands’ DNA and position in the market fit perfectly with Design Eyewear Group’s growth strategy and product range, and we look forward to joining forces to offer our customers an expanded, enhanced brand portfolio that caters for many different target groups and price classes.”

Jonathan Buxton, Partner at finnCap Cavendish, commented:

“I am delighted to have found such a fantastic home for William Morris London. We had the privilege of working with Robert Morris for several years ahead of the transaction and our in-depth knowledge of the business was incredibly useful when putting the deal together. Many congratulations to Robert and the team at William Morris!

The sale to Design Eyewear Group highlights our ability to access international purchasers and is our 10th transaction in the eyewear sector.”