Eyewear brands set sights on growth following acquisition

A glasses designer has purchased a Peterlee-based firm in a deal that will create one of the UK’s leading independent eyewear suppliers.

Wolf Eyewear has acquired White Optics.

The acquisition, which was backed by debt funding from Frontier Development Capital (FDC), will allow both companies to offer products at a wide range of price points to independent opticians.

The two companies will continue to operate as separate businesses under their existing brands.

Tom Wolfenden, Wolf Eyewear chief executive said: “Having worked closely with the White Optics team for some time, we are pleased to have completed this deal which will bring them into the Wolf ‘family’.

“Both companies have an excellent fit in terms of culture and products and joining forces means we can now offer frames to suit every budget.

“It will also safeguard the future of the White Optics brand and enable them to join us on our growth journey.”

The debt package from FDC includes funding for the acquisition and to support further growth.

Simon Kelsall of FDC said: “The acquisition will bring together two complementary businesses to create one of the UK’s leading eyewear wholesalers.

“Tom and his team at Wolf Eyewear have their sights firmly set on growth and have already begun to establish distribution channels overseas.

“It is great to be able to support this deal, which will extend their reach in the UK and make them well positioned for further international expansion.”

Pictured: Tom Wolfenden, chief executive Wolf Eyewear