JD Sports Fashion has bolstered its outdoor division by taking a controlling stake in Tiso Group, which has 10 stores in Scotland.

JD chairman Peter Cowgill will take over as Tiso chairman from Chris Tiso, who will become chief executive. It paid an undisclosed sum for the business.

Tiso, which sells outdoor clothing and equipment, said the “strategic investment” would allow it to develop its existing businesses Alpine Bikes, George Fisher and Blues the ski shop.

Tiso joins JD’s outdoor division, which includes Blacks and Millets, which it bought out of administration last year.

Tiso will continue to operate out of its Edinburgh base. The Tiso family retain a shareholding in the firm.

KPMG head of retail David McCorquodale, who was lead adviser on the sale, said: “The outdoor retail market is consolidating and scale with national coverage is an important aspect of meeting consumer needs.

“To bring the Tiso brand into an ambitious larger group that can offer the full range of choice is a logical step for the Tiso family to take.

“For JD Sports, there is plenty of opportunity for further development of a business which has market leaders in Tiso, George Fisher, Alpine Bikes and Blues skiing.”

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