maconda supports Invision in the investment in Reisenthel, the leading manufacturer of smart and fashionable shopping bags
maconda News December 2019
The Swiss private equity firm Invision acquired a majority stake in Reisenthel as part of a succession solution. Reisenthel is the leading manufacturer of smart and fashionable shopping baskets, bags, and trolleys in the shopping, travel, cosmetics, and children’s segments. Prior to this, maconda’s consultants from Cologne—with their extensive experience in the consumer goods industry and retail—evaluated Reisenthel’s business model and future prospects in a comprehensive Commercial Due Diligence.
Reisenthel is a successful manufacturer of bags of all kinds, specializing in practical everyday essentials with high utility value and contemporary design. By inventing a cult product—the well-known Carrybag, a frequently seen collapsible shopping basket—Reisenthel has created its own niche and is the clear market leader in this space. End customers find the innovative products at various points of sale, such as specialty retailers, furniture stores, department stores, and online retail. In addition, commercial customers—including major automotive manufacturers—and operators of loyalty programs use Reisenthel products as attractive giveaways and rewards.
As part of a Commercial Due Diligence, maconda evaluated Reisenthel’s business model and its future viability. Through detailed research and extensive analysis, the team successfully understood the multifaceted product range, from various shopping companions such as baskets and bags to travel bags and cosmetic pouches to adapted products for children. The challenge: nearly every product category has its own dynamics, different competitors, and displays a different distribution channel mix. Accordingly, the interviews conducted with market experts from diverse backgrounds were numerous and comprehensive. maconda’s extensive network helped to quickly establish the necessary contacts.
Another key component of the due diligence was the multichannel distribution and broad customer base—both brick-and-mortar and online. To this end, maconda’s consultants analyzed the relevant distribution channels and customer groups. Additionally, maconda’s eCommerce team analyzed the status quo and performance of the online business and online marketing using a variety of web metrics. Naturally, the potential to further increase reach—for example, through social media initiatives—was also identified. Various options for further growth, along with measures to capture it, rounded out the CDD.
About Reisenthel
As an internationally renowned brand, Reisenthel stands for bags and organizational solutions that impress through functionality and urban, contemporary designs. With expertise, competence, and inventive spirit, the Reisenthel team has been developing innovative products since 1971 that make life easier and everyday life more beautiful. “The world is full of bags—but you always recognize one from Reisenthel,” according to the company’s own claim. Awarded multiple times and successfully operating in over 60 countries worldwide, Reisenthel is today a leading national and international provider in its segment.
maconda continues to expand its expertise in the consumer goods industry and retail
In recent years, the maconda team has intensively addressed various topics in the consumer goods industry and retail and successfully completed numerous projects. These included several investment checks and Commercial Due Diligences, strategy engagements, and projects to improve operational performance.
Extensive industry experience: Bags and other accessories | various apparel segments | durable consumer goods of all kinds | diverse niches | specialty retail across many industries | department stores | furniture stores | eCommerce | omnichannel | social media | brands | lifestyle products | gift items