Livingbridge has invested in World of Books

World of Books (Wob) is a re-commerce business operating within the books sector, committed to acting as a force for good. Its purpose-driven actions focus on three areas, 1) the promotion of used goods, 2) championing literacy by helping to make books more widely accessible and 3) taking action to reduce carbon emissions – each aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development goals of responsible consumption, quality education and climate action.

Wob sources books via partnerships with charities, publishers and directly from consumers through its Ziffit app and website. Items are then sold directly through the WorldofBooks.com website, Amazon, eBay and other specialist marketplaces. Furthermore, the company runs Shopiago, a proprietary Software as a Service platform to help charities optimize sales and grow online re-commerce revenues.

Wob has built a data-driven proprietary technology platform, which integrates with its three highly automated warehouses in Coventry, UK; Goring-on-Sea, UK; and Cincinnati, U.S. This year, Wob expects to generate revenues of over £100 million, a 30% year-over-year increase.

The growth strategy will focus on expanding its repeat customer base, growing both its direct sourcing and selling mix and international expansion. It will also continue to drive greater efficiency through automation and use of technology.

Lincoln acted as exclusive buy-side corporate finance advisor to Livingbridge, working closely with the team to navigate and win the auction process, providing deep market and sector insights, process management and strategic advice throughout. Lincoln also provided debt advisory services to support Livingbridge’s acquisition, delivering a comprehensive financing package that will support expansion.

Alex Masters and Harry Kalmanowicz, Managing Directors in Lincoln’s Consumer Group, commented, “It has been a real pleasure working with the Livingbridge team, and we are pleased to have provided our support throughout this competitive process. We are delighted that Livingbridge has been successful in acquiring Wob, a highly scalable and sustainable leading e-commerce platform with a proud B-Corp status. Wob has found the perfect partner to support its future growth.”

“We’re thrilled to have Livingbridge as our partner. They have shown huge passion for our business model and align with our belief that businesses play a critical role in creating a positive impact. They have a track record of supporting growing companies, and we are excited to work with them to maximize our potential,” added Graham Bell, Chief Executive Officer of Wob.

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