UK-based Gardiners Group, a prominent distributor of footwear and workwear, is making strides in the European market by acquiring footwear distributor Dubois for an undisclosed sum. The announcement of this acquisition was shared on the official LinkedIn page of Gardiner Bros & Co (Leathers), which also oversees Footsure Western, a firm specializing in safety footwear.
Dubois, located in Brussels, is a family-owned enterprise that has been operating for three generations. The company serves as the official distributor for various renowned footwear and apparel brands.
Founded by Jean Dubois in 1951, the company has built a strong portfolio representing labels such as Sebago, CAT Footwear, Aigle, Dickies, Gant, and Berghen. Reports suggest that Dubois will expand its brand offerings to include Hard Yakka, Timberland Pro, Base London, and Amblers Safety.
James Gardiner, CEO of Gardiner Bros & Co (Leathers), expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “This new chapter in our international growth journey is an incredibly exciting milestone. Expanding into the European market alongside a trusted partner like Dubois significantly strengthens our position as the go-to supplier that unites trusted brands and retailers.”
He further emphasized the alignment between the two companies: “We’re bringing together two highly complementary businesses grounded with deep consumer understanding and shared values. At the core of our partnership is our mutual dedication to fostering authentic long-term relationships with our customers and a shared ambition to place sustainability and ethical practices at the forefront of our mission.”
Jean-Jacques Vankeerberghen, CEO of Dubois, shared his optimism regarding the acquisition: “The acquisition of Dubois by the Gardiners Group is a fantastic opportunity for the company to grow its business with existing and new brands in Benelux and the whole of Europe. The shared values are important to me as we progress the integration of the two historical family businesses.”
This acquisition marks a significant step in Gardiners Group’s strategy to enhance its market presence and service capabilities across Europe, positioning it favorably in a highly competitive landscape.
