Joolz Sells to Bugaboo, Combining for Global Growth in Stroller Market
Deal News | May 27, 2025 | Eagle Venture Partners OOO
Gimv, along with founding partners Emile Kuenen and Stan Vermeulen, has sold its stake in the premium stroller brand Joolz to Bugaboo, a leading global brand in the stroller and juvenile consumer products market. This strategic move combines the strengths of two pioneering Dutch brands, positioning them to accelerate growth in the global, fragmented stroller market. Joolz, known for its high-quality, eco-conscious designs, was supported by Gimv since 2016 to expand across Europe and beyond, achieving sales in over 60 countries. The merger allows both Bugaboo and Joolz to sustain their individual brand presence while leveraging mutual strengths for innovation and market expansion. The newly combined entity, headquartered in Amsterdam, will employ 1,200 personnel. Leadership from both companies emphasizes the alignment of values in quality, sustainability, and innovation as key drivers for their future success.
Sectors
- Juvenile Consumer Products
- Manufacturing
Geography
- Netherlands – Both companies, Joolz and Bugaboo, are Dutch brands headquartered in the Netherlands.
- Global – The merger is aimed at leveraging international growth, with both brands having a presence in Europe, APAC, the United States, and plans for further expansion.
Industry
- Juvenile Consumer Products – This industry is relevant as it encompasses products specifically designed for children, including strollers which are the primary products of both Joolz and Bugaboo.
- Manufacturing – Both Joolz and Bugaboo are involved in the design and manufacturing of strollers.
Financials
Participants
Name | Role | Type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
Joolz | Target Company | Company | A Dutch brand known for high-quality, eco-friendly strollers with a strong market presence in over 60 countries. |
Bugaboo | Bidding Company | Company | A leading global brand in strollers and juvenile products, acquiring Joolz to strengthen its market position. |
Gimv | Selling Company | Company | A private equity firm that invested in Joolz to support its expansion strategy and has now exited its stake through the sale to Bugaboo. |
Emile Kuenen | Co-Founder of Joolz | Person | A founding partner involved in the establishment and growth of the Joolz brand. |
Stan Vermeulen | Business Partner at Joolz | Person | A business partner who played a significant role in Joolz's strategic direction alongside Emile Kuenen. |
Patrick Franken | Partner at Gimv Consumer | Person | He expressed pride in the growth journey of Joolz under Gimv's investment. |
Jelle Assink | Principal at Gimv Consumer | Person | He commented on the successful collaboration and strategic growth of Joolz. |
Richard den Hollander | CEO of Joolz | Person | CEO of Joolz who highlighted the synergies and future vision with Bugaboo. |
Adriaan Thierry | CEO of Bugaboo | Person | CEO of Bugaboo who articulated the strategic advantages of acquiring Joolz. |