Bury-based global toy manufacturer and distributor, Sambro International, has been acquired, for an undisclosed sum, by HTI Group, the Fleetwood-based global supplier of children’s toys and games.
The acquisition establishes HTI as the largest privately-owned toy company in the UK, with combined annual sales of more than £120m and a presence in more than 70 international markets, it said.
Founded in 1952, HTI has built a portfolio in key product categories. Known for its proprietary brands, such as Teamsterz and EVO, it also develops early learning ranges for entertainment brands like Peppa Pig, Bluey, and Paw Patrol.
With headquarters and a state-of-the-art automated manufacturing facility in Fleetwood, the company operates globally, with multiple operations across mainland China, Hong Kong, the Netherlands, and Germany, serving a wide network of retailers, wholesalers, and e-commerce platforms.
Sambro is a major player in the EU branded toy market, known for its creative ranges in soft toys, arts and crafts, and outdoor toys. Sambro has developed strong partnerships with some of the world’s biggest brands, including Spider-Man, Frozen, Peppa Pig, and Paw Patrol.
The acquisition of Sambro will deepen HTI’s footprint in key European markets and expand its already extensive product line with new categories, driving growth both in the UK and across its global customer base.
John Hutt, Principal at HTI Group, said: “Sambro has established a leading position in several key categories of the branded toy market, with an excellent reputation for innovation, value, quality, and service. Its expertise, product ranges, and market reach are a perfect complement to HTI’s.
“This acquisition allows us to accelerate our long term global growth strategy. Together, we are ideally positioned to meet retailers’ needs across all retail channels, offering an expanded and innovative toy portfolio backed by world-class design, merchandising, manufacturing, and logistics capabilities.”
HTI confirmed that both companies will continue operating from their existing UK locations, ensuring seamless service and operational continuity for partners and customers.
Additionally, HTI is progressing with the construction of its new 250,000 sq ft global headquarters, which is expected to be completed by late 2025.