HSBC Private Equity has led and arranged the management buyout of Ampafrance, the leading French manufacturer of baby products, from private investors. The transaction, for an undisclosed consideration, was financed through a combination of institutional equity, provided by HSBC Private Equity, and senior debt, which was provided by HSBC CCF. 

Ampafrance is the leading French manufacturer of baby products, such as pushchairs and car seats, and the second largest in Europe. It is the only European player with a full range of products sold through all major distribution channels including specialised retailers and hypermarket chains. It has three major brands; Bébé Confort, Monbébé and Babidéal.

Ampafrance's strategy is based on regularly introducing innovative products, securing strong relationships with retailers, optimising the flexibility of its manufacturing and increasing its penetration in other European markets. The group has shown strong growth in sales and profits over the last few years and for the year to September 2001 is expected to generate sales of €166 million (more than 40 per cent outside France). The group has some 1,000 employees, operates plants in France, Italy and Portugal, and also has sub-contracting agreements in China and North Africa.

Dominique Favario, CEO of Ampafrance, commented: "This transaction guarantees the independence of Ampafrance and gives us the support of a powerful international financial group. This will favour our expansion in new markets and our growth of sales and profits, based on the strong success of the new product lines and our strategy of continuing to develop innovative new products."

Mathieu Guillemin, Investment Director, HSBC Private Equity's Paris Representative Office, said: "The acquisition of Ampafrance allows us to invest alongside a first-class management team and to support their development strategy. Under the leadership of Dominique Favario, Ampafrance has demonstrated dynamic growth which we are confident it can maintain."