Hamleys to be snapped up by Chinese buyer for £100m

Chinese footwear company C.banner International Holdings is in ‘advanced talks’ to buy Hamleys, with the Hong Kong-listed company is expected to confirm a deal to buy 255-year-old retailer for around £100m.

France’s Ludendo Groupe has owned Hamleys since 2012 after buying it for a cool £60m. Aside from being the closest place to the North Pole for many children, with its Regent Street flagship store renowned for its Christmas extravaganzas, the seven-floor toy store is a honey pot for tourists all year round.

As far as British brands go, it’s a solid pick as an established name and family favourite – and Hamleys could be a handy way for C.banner to diversify its business.