Riverside acquires Japan bicycle retailer

The Tokyo-based chain sells high-end products for cycling enthusiasts including road bikers, triathletes, mountain bikers, and cyclocross racers. Its product range includes bikes, frames, components, maintenance and fitting services, accessories, and apparel.

The company has 29 stores across Japan, with a particular focus on metropolitan Tokyo.

According to a release, Riverside - which typically invests in companies valued up to $250 million - plans to build Y. International's market share by widening its sales footprint outside Tokyo. The company is also looking to improve customer loyalty and boost online sales.

"Y. International's breadth of products, outstanding service, and wide range of over 20 top-tier brands differentiates them from competition," said Hiroaki Wakashita, Riverside vice president. "Thanks to this outstanding blend of products and services, the company has strong growth prospects both within and outside metropolitan Tokyo."

Tokyo Star Bank provided the transaction financing while Nihon M&A Center advised Riverside on the deal.

Wakashita added that Y. International is the first of several deals that Riverside is in final stages of closing across the Asia-Pacific region. The GP is hoping to leverage its global footprint to help small- to medium-sized businesses expand internationally.

Riverside has invested in 320 companies worldwide - with 70 companies in its current portfolio. It has four Asian investments, the most recent being animal drug delivery company Simcro, which was acquired in July.

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• Topics
• North Asia
• Buyout
• Consumer
• Consumer
• Japan
• The Riverside Company