Kathmandu owner KMD Brands enters exclusive talks over possible takeover

KMD Brands – the owner of Kathmandu, Rip Curl and Oboz – is in exclusive talks with a US consumer brand group over a possible takeover.

Bluestar Alliance is carrying out due diligence on a potential acquisition of all KMD shares, after KMD revealed in September that it had received several approaches.

The US company specialises in buying and managing consumer brands, with a portfolio that includes surf and lifestyle brand Hurley.

The exclusivity agreement runs as late as 23 December, although KMD says there’s no certainty a binding offer or takeover will result.