In a significant move within the luxury cashmere and apparel market, Dawson-Forté Cashmere, the esteemed brand parent of KINROSS Cashmere and &Isla, has ushered in a new era of leadership and potential growth through a majority stake sale to Tempus Partners, a notable player in the private equity sphere focused on consumer brands. This partnership signifies a pivotal moment not only for Dawson-Forté, but also for the luxury cashmere industry at large, underscoring a notable trend of private equity investment in high-quality, heritage consumer goods.

Dawson-Forté, based in Canton, Massachusetts, has long been recognized for its dedication to the craftsmanship and quality of its products, standing as a beacon in the luxury apparel sector. With a legacy stretching over 150 years, KINROSS Cashmere is hailed for pairing timeless style with the durability and elegance of hand-crafted cashmere and other fine natural fibers. Its counterpart, &Isla, draws inspiration from UK aesthetics to offer luxury cashmere with an “easy, elevated aesthetic” infused with elements of surprise. The brands have cemented their places in the wardrobes of discerning customers across the US and UK, available in over 600 stores, including prestigious names like Mitchells, Halsbrook, Wits End, Wilkes Bashford, and Valentina.

The acquisition by Tempus Partners marks a notable investment by the consumer-focused equity firm into the thriving yet niche market of cashmere and luxury apparel. Tempus, known for its strategic focus on profitable small businesses within the Consumer Products and Consumer Manufacturing sectors, aims to bolster the next phase of growth for Dawson-Forté. Through this partnership, Tempus envisions leveraging its deep industry expertise and strategic resources to scale the brands’ distribution and enhance their market presence, fuelled by Dawson-Forté’s commitment to quality and excellence.

As Dawson-Forté embarks on this new chapter, Andy Bartmess, CEO of Dawson-Forté, along with Mary McCann, the SVP of Sales and Merchandising, will continue to steer the company, maintaining their roles and shareholder status. Their leadership, backed by their deep understanding and passion for the brands, will be instrumental in navigating this transition while preserving the unique identity and heritage that customers have come to love.

The sentiments echoed by Geoffrey Champlin and Kyle White, Managing Partners at Tempus Partners, reflect a shared vision for Dawson-Forté’s future—one that emphasizes growth and expansion while retaining the core attributes that define KINROSS and &Isla’s distinction in the marketplace. This partnership represents a harmonious blend of strategic growth ambitions with a reverence for tradition and quality, poised to fortify Dawson-Forté’s position in the luxury apparel industry further.

While the financial terms of the transaction remain undisclosed, the involvement of MMG Advisors, Inc. as the exclusive financial advisor and the legal guidance from Scholhamer Business Law and Benesch Friedlander Coplan & Aronoff underscores the strategic and careful planning behind this significant deal. As Dawson-Forté and Tempus Partners embark on this promising venture, the luxury cashmere and apparel market awaits the innovative approaches these two entities will bring to the table, potentially setting new benchmarks for excellence and growth in the sector.