Textile manufacturer Vlisco explores options for potential sale

Dutch textile manufacturer Vlisco, known for its use of colorful prints

and patterns is rumored to be investigating options for a possible sale, or even a future IPO.

Actis, the London-based private equity firm which has owned Vlisco since 2010 is said to have taken on British bank Barclays to explore future possibilities for the 168 year old company. Murray Grant, a partner at Actis who is in charge of the Vlisco investment, has confirmed that the firm has asked Barclays to advise them, but told WWD: “We are not actively selling the company.”

He adds that a number of European funds have been approached concerning Vlisco and some parties have shown interest, noting that “we have to sell everything at some stage”. Actis invests in a number of companies in Africa and is expected to depart from the company within the five to seven year investment window that most private equity firms adhere by.

The private equity firm is expected to achieve its goal of doubling Vlisco's turnover from 169 million in 2006 to 300 million by 2015-2016 this year, as the company continues to grow, producing 70 million yards of fabrics per year. Actis has aided Vlisco in investigating possibilities outside of its main market, expanded its network of retails ores and product range to include accessories and ready-to-wear lines.

According to internal sources, luxury companies such as LVMH and Hermés International have their sights set on Vlisco, as they aim to secure specialized supplier for their exclusive supply chains.