Freeths advises on international acquisition of premium UK bikepacking brand Tailfin

Italian cycling and outdoor sports group MVC has invested in one of the UK’s fastest-growing premium bikepacking brands, in a cross-border deal advised by Freeths.

Freeths advised MVC Group on its acquisition of Bristol-based Tailfin, bringing together an established international sports group with an innovative British business with a growing global customer base.

The transaction highlights Freeths’ growing international M&A capability, with the firm advising on the UK aspects of the cross-border deal as part of a wider international team supporting MVC’s continued expansion strategy.

MVC specialises in technical apparel for cycling and outdoor sports through a portfolio of leading brands including Castelli, Sportful, Zoot and Karpos. Headquartered in Italy, the group operates across 75 countries through 10 subsidiaries and continues to expand its international footprint through strategic acquisitions.

Founded in Bristol in 2017, Tailfin designs and manufactures premium bikepacking bags, racks and accessories. The business is backed by a strong product innovation pipeline and an international customer base spanning key markets including the US, UK and Germany.

The acquisition strengthens MVC’s position within the global cycling market, adding a market-leading brand in the premium bikepacking sector and providing opportunities to accelerate Tailfin’s international growth through MVC’s extensive global commercial network.

The core Freeths team was led by Corporate Partner Michelle Kirkland-Elias, supported by Partner Claire Boyce, Senior Associate Hollie Robinson, and Associates Ellie Harrison and Druv Shah.

Commenting on the deal, Michelle Kirkland-Elias said: “This deal brings together an established Italian group with an innovative, fast-growing British business. Tailfin has built an international reputation from its base in Bristol, underpinned by strong engineering and product development.

“It was a pleasure to advise MVC on this strategic UK investment and work alongside advisers across jurisdictions to deliver the transaction. The deal reflects the continuing international interest in ambitious UK businesses with distinctive products and clear global growth potential.”

Emilio Foà, Chief Executive Officer at MVC Group, said: “The acquisition of Tailfin marks another important step in our international growth strategy and strengthens MVC’s position in the cycling and outdoor sports market. Freeths provided clear, commercial advice throughout the transaction and worked seamlessly with our wider international advisory team. We’re grateful to Michelle and the team for their support in completing this important acquisition.”