In the challenging year that was 2021, the acquisition of Kikki.K by Brandbank Group proved to be a moment of celebration for the businesses.
The stationery retailer had found itself in trying times before and during the pandemic, ultimately entering administration for the second time in 17 months in August 2021.
However, Brandbank Group wasn't going to let Kikki.K fade away.
"We believe the brand has a bright future," Brandbank Group CEO David Thomas said of Kikki.K in October, upon announcing the purchase.
"Kikki.K has a strong following of passionate customers and a loyal team behind it.
"Our focus is to work together with the Kikki.K team to create a successful future for the brand," he said at the time.
Growth strategies for the brand include expanding the online store, reenergising the retail store network, improving the customer experience and exploring medium-term international opportunities.
In the transaction, Kikki.K maintained the majority of head office employees, the retail team, its online store plus approximately 30 retail stores.
Brandbank Group operates fashion brands Seed Heritage, Commonry and French Connection, as well as kids lifestyle, health and skincare brand Allkinds.
Kikki.K was founded by Kristina Karlsson in 2001 and grew to service customers in more than 140 countries including Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong and the UK.