A clothing business which has become globally known for its equestrian attire is now making moves into the mainstream female sportswear market, with its founder geared for growth having become sole owner of the business.
Multi-award-winning Jordan McCabe now owns Aztec Diamond outright, after buying her mother Jane out of the business, who has been part of the venture since its foundation in 2014 when Jordan was only 18.
Through identifying a gap in the market for equestrian wear for fashion-conscious young women, Aztec Diamond has become a global leader in its field, and it is believed that there are only two countries worldwide that the business has never shipped to.
Having fulfilled her childhood dream of starting such a business, Jordan – winner of awards including Lloyds Bank entrepreneur of the year, and who has been named on the esteemed Forbes 30 under 30 list – is now keen to push the growth of Aztec Diamond to the next level by widening its focus beyond the equestrian market.
Backed by an expert team – including non-executive finance director Brenda Readman-Bell, a former FD at iconic clothing company Barbour – Jordan is now keen to grow the potential of their market size by opening their offering.’
“I have spent the last 10 years learning how to create the best calibre of sports wear, which I want more women to have access to, without being limited to equestrian. Aztec Diamond is a lifestyle, and so much more beyond equestrianism. That’s a big focus for us going forward.”
With her business partner and mother now enjoying retirement, Jordan is keen to realise her dream of growing Aztec Diamond even further.
“I’ve always wanted to take the business as far as I can, to really see what is possible for the brand, that’s the goal,” she says.
“My mum has always been there with support and advice, anything I’ve needed, it will be strange without her, but I know we’re both so ready for this next step. I want to continue what we have built and take it so much further. I’ve got a great team to build on, and Brenda’s experience will be very valuable, she has so much experience in retail.”
Jordan was supported in her buyout by WilliamsAli Corporate Finance, with managing director Abu Ali leading on securing the finance.
On working with WilliamsAli Corporate Finance Jordan said “Abu and Niall were a real pleasure to work with. They took the time to understand our business, offered expert advice and guidance and exceeded our expectations throughout the whole process. We look forward to working with them again as we progress our business strategy.
Award-winning dealmaker Abu Ali said: “Aztec Diamond is a brand recognised across the world for its fashion-forward equestrian designs for young women – this was a gap Jordan identified in the market, and her business is now synonymous with meeting that exact need globally.
“As a result of the buyout, Jordan is keen to really maximise the potential of the business. Focusing more on mainstream sportswear in response to her customer demographic is a very exciting move and one which could see Aztec Diamond an established name in even more of the international clothing market.
“We are delighted to have been able to support Jordan and can’t wait to see where the next chapter on her hugely successful journey takes her.”
Chris Hughes, corporate partner at Mincoffs Solicitors, and Tim Mallon at Mallon Tax also supported the transaction.
Chris said “It was a pleasure to work with Abu and Tim to deliver a successful result for Jordan, which creates opportunities for the business to grow and expand into new markets down the line”.
“Aztec Diamond has gone from strength to strength since Jordan launched the business nearly 10 years ago and I look forward to following her future success and working together in the future.”
Anthony Evans and Stephanie Brown from the corporate team at Muckle LLP, advised Jane on her exit.