Resource Partners, an independent private equity investor, has acquired a minority 40% stake in Cobi.
Founded over 35 years ago by CEO Robert Podleś, Cobi has a wide portfolio of historical-themed bricks, gaining a large group of collectors and enthusiasts around the world. It has licensed partnerships with brands such as Boeing, NASA, Top Gun and Maserati.
Robert Podleś will remain in his position, actively supporting the company’s growth and global brand recognition. Resource Partners, will support the company in the implementation as well as strengthening the global position of the Cobi brand.
“This is a huge achievement for me, and working with Resource Partners is a key step in the further development of our company”
The transaction is awaiting approval from the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection, after which it will be finalised.
Robert Podleś told TnP: “This is a huge achievement for me, and working with Resource Partners is a key step in the further development of our company. I believe that the experience and resources that RP brings will provide important support in achieving our common ambitions, allowing for even faster and more dynamic development of Cobi, strengthening our position among the leading manufacturers of building bricks in the world.”
“We fully believe in the further development potential of Cobi in the area of the historical niche, but we also see great opportunities brought by the transfer of experience and know-how from this segment to other niches with a large and engaged community of fans and enthusiasts. In addition, we see the growing potential of the ‘kidult’ market – adults who buy toys for themselves as a hobby, which is becoming a new, important category in the toy market,” said Małgorzata Bobrowska, Managing Partner, Resource Partners.
Cobi has its own production plant in Mielec, Poland and is also an importer and distributor of a wide range of toys.
For further information, please contact l.crocker@cobitoys.co.uk
