ALQUEMIE GROUP ANNOUNCES COLLABORATION WITH NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC IN AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND

Alquemie Group today announced a new retail collaboration with National Geographic within the Australia and New Zealand (ANZ) market that will see Alquemie opening a portfolio of new National Geographic experiential retail destinations across the regions, in addition to a dedicated e-commerce channel.

Richard Facioni, Founder and CEO, ACTA Capital and Executive Chairman of Alquemie Group comments: “We are excited to join forces with The Walt Disney Company and National Geographic to bring one of the world’s most highly regarded and recognised brands to retail across ANZ.

“This landmark agreement with Disney strengthens Alquemie Group’s emerging position as one of the country’s largest retail operators and investors. We intend to strategically grow its retail and consumer brands footprint, exploring relevant investment opportunities with leading local and global operators and exciting new goods across apparel, accessories and adventure travel.”

Kylie Watson-Wheeler, Senior Vice President and Managing Director for The Walt Disney Company in Australia and New Zealand comments: “National Geographic is unrivalled in its ability to bring people closer to the wonders of the world. The extension of the National Geographic brand with exciting new retail experiences brings our loyal and deeply engaged fans and consumers in Australia and New Zealand even closer to the science, adventure and exploration that National Geographic is world-renowned for.”

Meagan Sanders, VP & GM, Consumer Products of The Walt Disney Company Australia and New Zealand comments: “We look forward to collaborating with Alquemie Group to bring our National Geographic branded stores to local explorers at heart and continue the successful expansion of our stores across the Asia-Pacific region.

“With over 133 years of brand heritage and the notable resonance and relevance that
National Geographic has in the Australian and New Zealand markets, we couldn’t be happier to bring our unique offering of National Geographic apparel and accessories to consumers and fans in those regions.”

Alquemie Group is a retail investment vehicle managed by ACTA Capital. The Alquemie portfolio consists of a number of leading consumer and lifestyle businesses including LEGO® Certified Stores, General Pants, Ginger & Smart, SurfStitch and is currently exploring additional investments and licensing partnerships, with some in advanced discussions.