Nkuku is an ethical home and lifestyle brand that offers homewares, decorative accessories, furniture and gifts directly to consumers through its website and through other retailers. Nkuku products mix classic and contemporary design and combine timeless quality with hand-made craftmanship. Since its inception in 2003, the business has focussed on developing an ethical supply chain, supporting livelihoods in Asia, particularly India, and reducing its impact on the environment.
Founders Ali and Alex Cooke sought private equity investment to enable them to accelerate the growth of the business. Bridges’ was recognised as a compelling partner to support Nkuku’s growth strategy due its investment focus on developing a more inclusive and sustainable economy.
Our consumer corporate finance team provided buy-side advice and project management services to Bridges. We were also separately engaged to provide due diligence services.
The consumer and retail sector has experienced a large amount of change over the last 12 months as a result of Covid-19. Our team provided a crucial role in providing current sector insight and acting as a sounding board to Bridges throughout the process.
Our project management of the deal from final offer stage to completion facilitated a smooth process within a compact timeline
Nicola, Hemal and team were able to cut straight to the key issues as a result of their sector experience. Their tirelessly efficient and diligent approach meant we were able to transact on a very short timeline. Overall, a great combination of teams to work with and they delivered a really strong result.
Emma Thorne Investment Director, Bridges Fund Management
