Card Factory to Acquire Funky Pigeon, Boosting Digital Growth
Deal News | Jul 29, 2025 | Addleshaw Goddard
Addleshaw Goddard has been appointed as the legal advisor to Card Factory plc on its acquisition of Funky Pigeon from WH Smith PLC, valued at £24 million. This acquisition forms a critical part of Card Factory's strategy to expand its digital and omnichannel presence, positioning it as the second-largest online retailer for cards and gifts in the UK. The deal is expected to generate significant operational synergies in areas such as fulfilment, manufacturing, and digital services by integrating Funky Pigeon's platforms with Card Factory's existing capabilities. Funky Pigeon's digital infrastructure will serve as the foundation for Card Factory's online operations in the UK and Ireland. Addleshaw Goddard's team, led by Paul Medlicott and Eleanor Chatterton, has further solidified its reputation as a key advisor on significant M&A transactions for major listed companies, especially in the retail and consumer sectors.
Sectors
- Retail
- Legal Services
Geography
- United Kingdom – The United Kingdom is the primary geographical location as Card Factory and Funky Pigeon's operations are based there, and Addleshaw Goddard's advisory role is focused on this UK-centric transaction.
Industry
- Retail – The retail industry is relevant here because Card Factory and Funky Pigeon operate in the cards and gifting segment of the retail market.
- Legal Services – Legal services are relevant as Addleshaw Goddard provides advisory services in connection with the M&A transaction.
Financials
- £24 million – Cash consideration for the acquisition of Funky Pigeon by Card Factory.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Card Factory plc | Buyer | Company | Card Factory is a leading UK-based retailer specializing in greeting cards and gifts. |
| Funky Pigeon | Target Company | Company | Funky Pigeon is an established online business specializing in personalized cards and gifts. |
| WH Smith PLC | Vendor | Company | WH Smith PLC is a British retailer involved in selling books, stationery, magazines, and also owning Funky Pigeon. |
| Addleshaw Goddard | Legal Advisor | Company | Addleshaw Goddard is a prominent UK law firm advising on the acquisition of Funky Pigeon by Card Factory. |
| Paul Medlicott | Head of Private Equity at Addleshaw Goddard | Person | Paul Medlicott led the legal advisory team for Card Factory's acquisition of Funky Pigeon. |
| Eleanor Chatterton | Associate at Addleshaw Goddard | Person | Eleanor Chatterton, along with Paul Medlicott, worked on advising Card Factory for the transaction. |