Peter Cowgill, the former head of British sports-fashion retailer JD Sports, is reportedly exploring the possibility of making a comeback to the retail sector by leading a luxury menswear brand. After his 18-year tenure at JD Sports, Cowgill is said to have been approached by a private equity group regarding a senior role at Mainline Menswear, according to The Telegraph.
Mainline Menswear, owned by JD Sports, is currently in discussions with potential buyers for the designer label, aiming to shift its focus towards sportswear. Sources revealed that both private equity firms and trade bidders have expressed interest in involving Cowgill in any successful bid. If the sale proceeds, Mainline Menswear founder Stuart Hicks has also been approached to lead the business.
While discussions are in the early stages, JD Sports recently initiated talks with potential buyers. The retailer acquired a majority stake in Mainline Menswear in 2014, a brand known for selling prestigious labels like Emporio Armani, Hugo Boss, and Ralph Lauren online.
Despite his departure, Cowgill continues to work as a consultant for JD Sports, following the terms of his £ 5.5 million exit package.
Before his resignation, the former CEO gained attention when the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) fined JD Sports £ 4.3 million.
This penalty stemmed from a covert meeting between JD Sports and Footasylum CEO, and former JD chief executive, Barry Bown.
The CMA was probing JD’s potential acquisition of Footasylum and deemed the secretive rendezvous, where commercially sensitive information was exchanged in a car park, as a violation of its regulations.
