Hudson Holdings Limited (HHL), Malta’s leading retail company are pleased to announce that Frasers Group plc, a UK-based leading global retail group, has acquired a 41.98% direct shareholding in HHL.
This is the first phase of an agreement that allows for additional staggered acquisitions, which would lead to Frasers Group holding a controlling interest in HHL.
This acquisition marks a transformative milestone for HHL. The strategic partnership will allow Hudson to leverage on their retail operational excellence, their brand portfolio and international retail concepts such as Sports Direct. The intent is to strengthen and accelerate Hudson’s retail and wholesale business which will further strengthen Hudson’s position as retail leader in Malta and a leading distributor and retailer in Africa.
Changes in Board of Directors
As part of the transaction, Frasers has appointed four directors to the board of Hudson Holdings Limited on the 16th January 2025, whilst Mr. George Amato and Mr. Kevin Valenzia resigned on the same date.
Hudson extends its deepest gratitude to Mr. Amato and Mr. Valenzia for their unwavering dedication and exceptional leadership, which have played pivotal roles in shaping the Hudson Group’s direction and growth. Their contributions have left a lasting impact on Hudson’s success and its strategic evolution.
About Frasers Group
Frasers Group PLC is a globally renowned retail conglomerate, recognized for its extensive portfolio of leading brands in the Sport, Premium, and Luxury sectors. Established in 1982 in Maidenhead, United Kingdom, by Mike Ashley as Sports Direct, the company rebranded as Frasers Group in 2019 to reflect its expanded focus beyond sportswear.
The group operates several iconic retail brands, including Sports Direct, FRASERS, Flannels, and many others. With its emphasis on innovation, efficiency, and comprehensive market reach, Frasers Group continues to drive its global influence. Its strategic expansion into new regions, including Southern Europe and Africa, underscores its ambition to remain a dominant force in the retail industry.
For the financial year ending April 30, 2024, Frasers Group reported an Adjusted Profit Before Tax of £544.8 million, equivalent to over €600 million.
About Hudson Holdings Limited
Hudson Holdings Limited is a prominent retailer, distributor, and service provider specializing in sports and fashion. Representing globally renowned brands such as Nike, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Kiabi, Mango, Armani Exchange, Columbia, Converse, Crocs, Timberland, Urban Jungle, and Urban Bratz, Hudson has established itself as a leading player in the sector.
Headquartered in Burmarrad, Malta, Hudson operates supporting offices in Italy, Morocco, Algeria, Nigeria, and Cyprus. Although the company was officially established in 2006, its origins trace back to 1987, when the first pair of Nike shoes was sold in Malta. Today, Hudson manages nearly 90 stores across Africa and Southern Europe and maintains a robust distribution network spanning over 30 territories in Africa, particularly for Nike products.
Hudson employs over 1,000 people from more than 50 nations and operates a state-of-the-art distribution centre strategically located near Malta’s airport and freeport which serves the Africa market. This facility underscores the company’s efficiency and commitment to delivering high-quality service.
This acquisition by Frasers Group signals a promising new era for Hudson Holdings, strengthening its ability to thrive in the competitive global retail landscape.
