A manufacturer for brands like Wacoal, Freya, Fantasie, Elomi and Goddess, Walcoal Europe has acquired the UK-based lingerie and swimwear retailer Bravissimo.
Founded in 1995 by Sarah Tremellen and her husband, Bravissimo has grown into a go-to destination for fuller-bust lingerie and swimwear. Under the new ownership, Bravissimo will continue to operate as a separate company, with Leanne Cahill continuing as the CEO, a role she has held since 2020 when Tremellen became the chairperson.
The acquisition follows a successful 2023 for Bravissimo, with the company’s underlying EBITDA more than doubling from the previous year. Reflecting on the milestone, Tremellen says, both Bravissimo and Walcoal Europe have played pivotal roles in expanding the range of bigger cup sizes in the UK over the last 30 years.
Geoff Embley, CEO, Wacoal Europe, adds, this partnership strengthens Wacoal Europe’s shared vision and expands its mutual mission to deliver perfectly fitting lingerie and swimwear.
Bravissimo will continue to operate from its Leamington Spa office and warehouse, with all UK stores remaining open. The acquisition comes at a celebratory time for the company, which recently won the Customer Service Team of the Year award at The Retail Bulletin’s People in Retail Awards.
