London-based Farfetch, a global technology platform for the luxury fashion industry, announced its definitive agreement to acquire Stadium Goods, a premier sneaker and streetwear marketplace. Value of the deal should amount to 250 million US dollars.

“We are thrilled to welcome Stadium Goods to the Farfetch family. Having already collaborated with its exceptional team via the Farfetch marketplace, it is clear that there is a great opportunity for our two companies to leverage each other's strengths to go after a larger share of an exciting and fast-growing segment of luxury fashion", commented José Neves, Founder, CEO and Co-Chairman, Farfetch, adding: "The Stadium Goods team has built an incredible company, with a host of talented people, dedicated and loyal customers and remarkable brand equity. I am confident that we can help Stadium Goods grow its international presence for sneakerheads around the world through our expertise in technology, logistics and data. Farfetch will benefit from Stadium Goods’ brand, access to supply and a team with a strong passion for and knowledge of luxury streetwear. We can’t wait to get started with John, Jed and the rest of the Stadium Goods team.”

John McPheters, Stadium Goods Co-Founder and Co-CEO, said: “Myself, Jed and our entire team couldn’t be more excited to join the Farfetch family as we enter the next stage in our evolution as a global brand and product offering. By leveraging Farfetch’s best-in-class cross-border logistics and technology, as well as their luxury prowess, scale and customer base, we will be in a prime position to capitalize on the massive international demand for sneakers and streetwear. José and his team share a similar outlook for the future of fashion and retail, and together we believe the countless synergies and perfect cultural fit will make this a match made in heaven.”

Founded in 2015 by John McPheters and Jed Stiller, Stadium Goods is a premium sneaker and streetwear marketplace specializing in new and deadstock (brand new, never been worn before, second-hand) products. The premium sportswear market was worth 70 billion US dollars in 20171 and is largely incremental to Farfetch’s existing addressable market. Stadium Goods has participated in the Farfetch marketplace since April 2018, enjoying strong sales growth since its introduction to the platform. Following the acquisition, Stadium Goods will continue to operate as a standalone brand on the Farfetch platform and will be led by its existing management team. Stadium Goods’ inventory will be fully integrated into and available on the Farfetch marketplace, across all geographies including the US.

According to both parties: "Farfetch will benefit from Stadium Goods’ significant brand authority.... Stadium Goods has built a highly-engaged and far-reaching social media following. The company will be able to leverage Farfetch’s platform and expertise in technology, logistics, data and geographic reach to build on its strong growth to date".

Value of the deal should amount to 250 million US dollars. The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2019. Goldman Sachs acted as exclusive financial advisor and Fenwick & West acted as legal advisor to Farfetch.