Growing a Business: Cath Kidston’s International Success

An excellent case study here in how to grow a business through expansion into faster-growing international markets.

The Guardian article describes how Cath Kidston - the home furnishings retailer - has achieved annual turnover of more than £100m for the first time in its 20 year history. An impressive milestone achieved. But, what is even more impressive is that more than half of that turnover is now generated from international markets.

We are told that:

"The group now has 58 stores in the UK and 60 across China, Spain, Thailand and South Korea, with a new flagship store opening in Shanghai".

Much of the success of the brand overseas is attributed to its "universal appeal".

Note too the influence of the venture capitalises TA Associates who bought a majority stake in Cath Kidston in April 2010.

At the time of the investment in 2010, Cath Kidston (who retains a minority shareholding in the business) said:

"We are delighted to have found a fantastic partner in TA Associates whose expertise and international reach will help us to take the business to the next stage of its development. We now have the necessary partner in place to expand the brand internationally in Asia and other markets whilst enhancing our core offer in the UK.”

It looks like the venture capitalist is delivering on its promise!

Cath Kidston herself is a pretty inspirational entrepreneur. Both her parents died of cancer and she was diagnosed with breast cancer, aged 37. After recovering from breast cancer,^[Kidston opened her first shop in London selling hand-embroidered tea-towels and brightly renovated furniture.

20 years on, loyal customers around the world have fallen in love with her creative flair and the retail expertise of her team.