Fair fashion retailer Hessnatur is getting a new owner. The British Wourth Group is acquiring Hess Natur-Textilien GmbH & Co. KG from the Swiss financial investor Capvis. The purchase price and further details of the transaction remain confidential. The deal is still subject to approval by the relevant antitrust authorities.
Following the change of ownership, Hessnatur will maintain its existing positioning. The brand will continue to focus on natural materials, transparent supply chains, and responsible production conditions. Investments are planned, particularly in digitalization, customer experience, brand development, and improving operational processes.
“Hessnatur has undergone impressive development in recent years and has a strong brand with a future-proof business model,” says Mike Lester, CEO of the Wourth Group. Together with its shareholder Verdane, the group intends to support the company’s further development.
Wourth Group expands its German business
The Wourth Group was formed in 2024 from the former WoolOvers Group and specializes in omnichannel and mail-order retail of fashion and lifestyle products. Its portfolio includes WoolOvers and the shoe brand Hotter, as well as Peter Hahn, Pure Collection, Thought, Museum Selection, Scotts & Co., and Roama. According to the company, the group employs around 1.200 people and reaches more than two million active customers.
With the acquisition of Hessnatur, Wourth is strengthening both its presence in German-speaking countries and its offering in the area of sustainable fashion. The group had already completed its acquisition of the previously insolvent fashion retailer Peter Hahn at the end of 2024. The Winterbach-based company has since continued to operate as an independent entity within the group.
Hessnatur CEO Andrea Homann sees additional development opportunities under the new owner: “Together we want to further expand our market position and consistently develop the potential of our brand both nationally and internationally.” Homann has been leading the company alone since June 2024.
Capvis exits after 14 years
Capvis acquired Hessnatur from the Primondo Specialty Group in 2012. The purchase price was not disclosed at the time. Under the previous owner, the online business and the sustainable positioning of the brand were further developed.
Financially, Hessnatur has recently struggled with declining revenues. In the 2024/25 financial year, sales fell by eleven percent to €72,4 million. At the same time, the company returned to profitability: after a loss of €5,1 million in the previous year, a profit of €4,7 million was achieved. In the 2020/21 financial year, sales had still exceeded €100 million.
The change of ownership coincides with Hessnatur's anniversary year. Founded in 1976, the company will celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026. In addition to women's, men's, and children's fashion, its product range includes shoes, underwear, and home textiles.
