JD Sports expands with acquisition of Canterbury Europe.

JD Sports has confirmed today (4 August) that it has bought renowned rugby brand Canterbury Europe for £6.5 million in cash.

The latest acquisition comes shortly after the sports retailer bought Kooga Rugby Ltd on 3 July, and Chausport – a French footwear specialist – on 20 May.

David Costley-Wood and Brian Green were appointed Joint Administrators of Canterbury Europe Ltd on 13 July 2009, and have since been looking for a buyer.

The Canterbury brand has become synonymous with rugby since it was established over 100 years ago in New Zealand, and is currently the shirt sponsor of the South African and Australian international rugby teams.

The purchase by JD includes the global rights to the world-famous rugby brands ‘Canterbury’ and ‘Canterbury of New Zealand’, and the company believes the royalty income which will be generated from the global intellectual property rights will be a great asset in addition to the wholesale value.

Peter Cowgill, Executive Chairman of JD Sports, said: “We are delighted with the acquisition of the Canterbury and Kooga brands, which will further diversify the Group’s overall interests in the sports and related leisurewear markets.”