IMBIBA closes £90m Investment Fund at hard-cap target
Imbiba, the UK’s leading leisure, lifestyle, wellness and entertainment growth investor, announces the final close of its oversubscribed £90m second fund. As part of this milestone, Imbiba has completed its second investment from the Fund into the UK’s leading boutique gym brand, 1Rebel.
Imbiba Fund II, with capital commitments from a diverse investor base, will support the expansion of high-growth, category-leading businesses in the leisure, lifestyle, wellness, and entertainment sectors.
Commenting on the news, Darrel Connell, Managing Partner at Imbiba, said: “The substantial investment we've secured demonstrates strong confidence in Imbiba and the broader UK leisure, lifestyle, wellness, and entertainment sectors. With our experience and track record, Fund II positions us uniquely to support even more prominent entrepreneurs and best-in-class high-growth businesses. We're very grateful to our ever-growing and loyal base of investors who share our commitment, understanding and enthusiasm to this dynamic and exciting sector.”
The vision of its co-founders, James Balfour and Giles Dean, 1Rebel has been hailed as the “King of Gyms” and offers carefully curated and fully immersive workout classes across 10 studios in London, with a further three studios in Australia and the Middle East.
Imbiba has provided growth capital to support the management team with its ambitious plans to scale the business across the UK, as well as its growing international presence, with multiple new venues already secured in the pipeline.
Commenting, Lizzie Ryan, Partner and Head of Investment at Imbiba, said: “1Rebel perfectly embodies the type of businesses we seek to invest in – uniquely distinctive, top-tier, and poised for significant expansion, led by a highly reputable management team. We are excited to partner with James, Giles, and their dedicated team as they look to continue to grow the business.”
James Balfour, co-founder and CEO of 1Rebel, added: “Securing this investment from Imbiba marks a pivotal moment for our business. We are thrilled to have their support and confidence as we continue our mission to redefine fitness and wellness. With this new infusion of capital, we're poised to accelerate our growth, expand our reach, and further enhance the 1Rebel experience for our members. This investment is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, and we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. We are thrilled to embark on a long-lasting, sustainable partnership with such seasoned entrepreneurs and investors.”
Imbiba, as the only growth capital investor exclusively focused on the UK leisure, lifestyle, wellness, and entertainment sector, has developed and supported more companies in its dedicated sectors than any other UK investment firm. The group’s current investment portfolio includes a wide range of award-winning companies, such as Farmer J, F1 Arcade, Pizza Pilgrims, House of Gods Hotel Group, Little Houses Group, amongst many others.
For more information, please contact Imbiba@fsc.uk.com