Temperley London acquired by Dubai-based investor and plans major expansion

Temperley London has sold a majority stake in its business to Dubai-based investor Time Square Group and its investment arm Luxutte Capital and has revealed plans for a London flagship store and expansion into new product categories.

Times Square Group operates well-known names such as Manolo Blahnik, Zadig & Voltaire, Furla and others in the Middle East, and its investment in Temperley "marks a defining moment", its founder and CEO Ritesh Punjabi said.

The brand was founded in 2000 by British designer Alice Temperley, who restructured the business in the wake of Covid, focusing on bridal and eveningwear. Temperley has a strong following in the UAE, and its home market of the UK, but the deal will look to grow the brand globally. The brand currently operates stores in Somerset, where Temperley lives, as well as Dubai and Qatar.

“Embarking on this journey with Temperley London and Alice herself, marks a defining moment for Times Square Group. We are looking forward to creating a legacy that extends beyond Dubai and the UK. This partnership is not only about business, but about redefining the luxury fashion and lifestyle landscape in the UAE. Operating from the heart of Dubai allows us unparalleled opportunities, and we consider ourselves extremely fortunate to contribute to the city’s rise as a beacon of luxury retail on the world stage," Punjabi said in a statement.

Alice Temperley will remain with the business as creative director along with CEO Luca Donnini, while Punjabi will work closely with them to help execute the new strategy.

“This alliance opens a door to new horizons, allowing the Temperley London collection to extend its reach into bags, shoes, ready-to-wear, accessories, and swimwear. I am incredibly excited about this new journey with Times Square Group and looking forward to spending even more time in UAE engaging with our loyal clients in the GCC and the wider region," Temperley said.

Donnini added: “The strong funding and financial restructuring will allow a substantial improvement in our supply chain management, but equally significantly the reputation and retail experience of Time Square Group in the traditional luxury retail environment will be key to the future expansion of Temperley London and allow for a full lifestyle representation and elevated customer experience of our different product lines.”