Modella Acquires The Original Factory Shop from Duke Street
Deal News | Feb 21, 2025 | Home of Direct Commerce

Modella Capital has acquired The Original Factory Shop (TOFS) from private equity firm Duke Street, which owned the retail chain for 17 years. The acquisition involves a retail chain consisting of 180 stores employing approximately 1800 staff. In the year ending March 26, 2023, TOFS reported a pre-tax loss of £1.7 million against sales of £118 million. Other interested parties in the acquisition included Baaj Capital.
Sectors
- Retail
- Private Equity
Geography
- United Kingdom – The Original Factory Shop operates within the UK market and is based there, underlining its geographical relevance.
Industry
- Retail – The Original Factory Shop operates in the retail industry with 180 stores, making this the primary sector of interest.
- Private Equity – Duke Street, a private equity firm, sold TOFS, highlighting the involvement of the private equity sector.
Financials
- £1.7 million – Pre-tax loss for TOFS in the year ending March 26, 2023.
- £118 million – Sales recorded by TOFS for the year ending March 26, 2023.
Participants
Name | Role | Type | Description |
---|---|---|---|
The Original Factory Shop (TOFS) | Target Company | Company | A UK-based retail chain with 180 stores and approximately 1800 employees. |
Duke Street | Selling Company | Company | A private equity firm that owned TOFS for 17 years prior to its sale. |
Modella Capital | Bidding Company | Company | The owner of Hobbycraft and new acquirer of TOFS. |
Baaj Capital | Other Interested Party | Company | Explored the opportunity to acquire TOFS. |