FX.co ★ Dr. Martens considers London IPO

Iconic footwear brand Dr. Martens is planning to launch its first IPO on the London Stock Exchange (LSE). Although this IPO is unlikely to become the biggest on the LSE, it will definitely attract investors’ attention. However, in its official statement, the company did not give any details on the listing procedure and its exact date. The retailer simply confirmed its intentions to float on the London stock market. It also reported that an IPO would entail the sale of existing shares owned by private equity group Permira Holdings, as well as the stake of minor shareholders. So, Dr. Martens intends to float at least 25% of its shares in an initial public offering. Analysts believe now is the perfect time for the IPO launching thanks to the rallying stock markets. Thus, the FTSE 100, the major UK stock market index, posted its best start on record in the first week of January 2021. Permira Holdings acquired Dr. Martens in 2014 for $449 million. In 2020, the company sought to sell the business but the deal failed due to the coronavirus pandemic.