The Very Group sold to US investment giant as Barclay family ends two-decade reign

The Very Group, owner of online retail brands Very and Littlewoods, has announced the completion of a transaction that sees global investment firm Carlyle become the company’s new owner.

International media group IMI will continue as a key stakeholder, while the Barclay family concludes its more than 20-year association with the business.

The deal provides The Very Group with a stronger capital base and greater financial flexibility, enabling further investment in its long-term growth strategy.

It is also said to reflect the confidence that both Carlyle and IMI have in the company’s management team, brand position, and future potential.

Carlyle, working alongside IMI, will support The Very Group’s leadership in advancing its strategic priorities, including innovation and the use of technology and data to enhance the customer experience.

The Barclay family’s departure marks the end of an era for the company, which has undergone significant transformation under their ownership - from a traditional catalogue retailer into one of the UK’s largest online retail platforms.

The announcement follows a "strong" financial year for The Very Group. In its results for the year ending 28 June 2025, the company reported record earnings, with adjusted EBITDA up 15.9% to £307.1 million, the highest in its history.

Category performance was mixed, with home (+9.9%), beauty (+5.2%), and toys (+4.3%) showing growth, while fashion and sports (-3.7%) and electricals (-2%) saw declines.

Robbie Feather, Group CEO of The Very Group, said: "This marks an important milestone for The Very Group as we move into an exciting new phase of growth.

"We are delighted to continue to partner with Carlyle and IMI. Their continued backing provides us with a stronger foundation to execute on our strategy, increase investment in technology and the customer experience, and to build on the momentum across the business.

"I’d like to thank the Barclay family for their stewardship and contribution to the Company over the past two decades.”

The transaction follows the Barclay family’s decision earlier this year to explore a full or partial sale of The Very Group, which had attracted interest from multiple potential buyers across both its retail and technology divisions.