Sportswear giant Sports Direct has confirmed it has acquired young fashion retailer Republic out of administration. 

The sports giant, which also owns USC, bought the assets, brands, and all 116 Republic stores, as revealed by Retail-week.com this morning. It has also acquired its Leeds head office.

However, it is understood that some of the stores have been bought on a six month license.

Republic brands include SoulCal, Fabric and Crafted. 

Republic collapsed earlier this month, and Ernst & Young was appointed administrator.

Joint administrator Hunter Kelly said: “In what has been a very challenging time and volatile climate for retailers, it is particularly pleasing to have completed the successful sale of Republic, saving 2,100 jobs across the UK high street and at its Leeds-based headquarters.”

Sports Direct fought off stiff competition from young fashion retailer Blue Inc and the family behind Matalan, which were also vying to snap up the retailer.

Topics