Dainese Group acquired by investment firm Carlyle

Nasdaq listed investment firm Carlyle has announced the acquisition of bike and motorcycle protective gear and clothing label Dainese.

The buyout will see investment in international growth, most notably in the USA and China, but also in developing the brand’s consumer-direct channels.

Previously held by Investcorp and Lino Dainese, the buyout will see Cristiano Silei remain as CEO of the company. The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals.

Cristiano Silei said: “In Carlyle, I am delighted that we have found a partner that understands and appreciates the core values and vision for growth of the Group. With their track record and expertise in this sector, I am confident that we have found the ideal partner to help achieve our ambitious goals for growth and further internationalisation.”

One of several cycle clothing makers in Northern Italy, the Dainese brand holds several unique patents in the world of safety gear, ranging back protectors to wearable airbags for motorcycle riders. Within cycling the brand is most active in the mountain biking segment where it’s knowledge transfers to keep riders safe on the trails.

Massimiliano Caraffa, Managing Director leading Consumer & Retail for the Carlyle Europe Partners advisory team, said: “We were attracted by the company’s unique brand identity, long heritage and leadership in innovation. Leveraging our global network and expertise in scaling consumer brands, we are excited to support Dainese in the next chapter of its growth journey, building upon its distinctive customer-centric ‘head-to-toe’ product offering and unmatched technical excellence.”

The brand has 36 destination stores, present across seven countries. Dainese employs more than 1,000 employees and is present across EMEA, APAC and the Americas.

Carlyle Europe Partners (CEP) V is a €6.4bn fund investing in European opportunities across a range of sectors and industries. Other investments of the group include Moncler, Golden Goose, Design Holding and END.

Windwave is presently the UK distributor for the brand’s cycling goods.