Ineos to invest in clothing brand as part of new deal

United minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos has declared a "significant strategic investment" into premium sports apparel brand Castore.

- GRAEME WHITFIELD AND MATT HARDY

The petrochemicals giant will invest in the Chester-based clothing brand as part of an agreement that will see Castore acquire 100% of Ineos-owned Belstaff on a "debt-free, cash-free" basis.

Castore, which boasts sporting sponsorship deals with England Rugby, England Cricket and former Wimbledon champion Andy Murray, will now add Belstaff, the heritage clothing brand which celebrated its centenary in 2024, to its portfolio.

Belstaff chair Ashley Reed characterised the deal as a "union of two British brands".