"Deporvillage has a strong consumer-centric approach and is the market leader in its categories in Spain with significant potential for further international development. We look forward to closing the transaction and welcoming the Deporvillage team to the Group", commented Peter Cowgill, Executive Chairman of JD Sports Fashion Plc.

Based in Manresa in Catalonia, Deporvillage is an online only retailer focussing on the sale of specialist sports equipment principally for cycling, running and outdoor. Deporvillage was established by Xavier Pladellorens and Ángel Corcuera who, after a number of fund raising exercises, are currently minority shareholders. Post completion, the Management will retain a 20% holding in the business and will be continuing in their roles as Chief Executive Officer and Chief Purchasing Officer respectively. After launching initially in Spain in 2010, Deporvillage has expanded internationally with country specific websites launched subsequently in Italy (2013), France (2013), Portugal (2014), Germany (2018) and UK (2018).

In fiscal year to 31^st of December 2020, Deporvillage generated revenue of 117.8 million euros and delivered a profit before tax of 7.7 million euros.

Completion of the acquisition is subject to receiving antitrust clearance.
 
Total maximum cash consideration for the acquisition of the initial 80% holding in Deporvillage, subject to customary cash / debt and working capital adjustments, is 140.4 million euros, of which 40.4 million euros has been deferred and will be paid contingent on the performance of the business to 31^st of December 2021. The cash consideration is being funded from the Group's cash resources and existing bank facilities. Additionally, a number of put and call options, to enable future exit opportunities for Xavier Pladellorens and Ángel Corcuera have also been agreed, which commence two years after closing.

According to JD Sports, the acquisition of Deporvillage, when completed, will "enhance the Group's authenticity in key sports categories, significantly increase its digital capabilities in the sports equipment market and will complement the ongoing positive developments in the group's existing Sprinter and Sport Zone fascias".