Mike Ashley's Business Empire: A Look at the Companies Under His Control

Frasers Group Expands UK Retail Footprint Amid Cost Mitigation Strategies

Frasers Group, the British retail conglomerate previously known as Sports Direct, has recently expanded its retail empire in the UK. The company, which is publicly traded on the London Stock Exchange, has made significant strides in diversifying its portfolio and strengthening its presence in the luxury market.

Mike Ashley, the retail entrepreneur who founded Sports Direct, acquired Newcastle United, a prestigious club in the Premier League, in 2007. Over the years, Frasers Group has grown to encompass a vast store network across the UK, with well-known brands such as House of Fraser, Jack Wills, Evans Cycles, and Flannels under its umbrella.

One of Frasers Group's latest acquisitions is eBuyer, a struggling tech retailer. The move, made in August 2025, marks an entry into the electronics and tech retail sector, complementing existing holdings like gaming retailer Game and stakes in Currys and AO World.

In addition to acquisitions, Frasers Group has been expanding through opening new stores within its luxury segment. Recent openings include Flannels in Leeds and Frasers in Sheffield, signaling a continued investment in its premium retail proposition.

Despite a 7.4% drop in retail sales in the 2024 fiscal year, driven by weaker luxury sector demand and government policy effects, Frasers Group has emphasized cost mitigation strategies. These include incorporating artificial intelligence, alongside its acquisition strategy, to drive future growth.

Mike Ashley's leadership team features influential figures, including Michael Murray, his son-in-law, who holds significant responsibilities in Frasers Group. Murray, as the Head of Elevation, has a crucial role in modernizing the Frasers Group brand and optimizing store experiences.

Noteworthy is the strategic stake in luxury brands, with Ashley's foray into the upscale market marked by a substantial ownership in Hugo Boss. Frasers Group is also taking strides towards reducing its carbon footprint and enhancing sustainability throughout its operations.

Despite stepping down as the CEO of Frasers Group, Mike Ashley remains a significant stakeholder in the business. His wealth originated from the creation of a sports and ski shop in Maidenhead, which was the precursor to Sports Direct.

Frasers Group, like any large organisation, has faced scrutiny concerning its employee relations, particularly around working conditions for their workers during the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the company operates several subsidiaries, including GAME, Sofa.com, and Lillywhites, and maintains strategic investments in various high-profile brands.

[1] The Guardian. (2025, August 1). Frasers Group acquires eBuyer out of administration. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/aug/01/frasers-group-acquires-ebuyer-out-of-administration

[2] Retail Gazette. (2025, April 15). Frasers Group opens new Frasers store in Sheffield. Retrieved from https://www.retailgazette.co.uk/blog/2025/04/frasers-group-opens-new-frasers-store-in-sheffield/

[3] BBC News. (2025, March 1). Frasers Group reports 7.4% drop in retail sales. Retrieved from https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-61074366

[4] Retail Week. (2025, February 15). Frasers Group to use AI to drive growth. Retrieved from https://www.retail-week.com/technology/frasers-group-to-use-ai-to-drive-growth/7036690.article

[5] The Telegraph. (2025, August 1). Frasers Group rescues eBuyer from administration. Retrieved from https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2025/08/01/frasers-group-rescues-ebuyer-administration/

Frasers Group is expanding its retail business in the UK, diversifying its portfolio and strengthening its presence in the luxury market, as the company continues to grow beyond its sports retail roots.
In a strategic move, Frasers Group has acquired eBuyer, a struggling tech retailer, marking an entry into the electronics and tech retail sector and complementing their existing holdings in the gaming and home appliances industries.
Despite the 7.4% drop in retail sales in the 2024 fiscal year, Frasers Group is focusing on cost mitigation strategies that incorporate artificial intelligence to drive future growth and maintain a competitive edge.
As part of its expansion, Frasers Group has opened new stores within its luxury segment, such as Flannels in Leeds and Frasers in Sheffield, signaling continued investment in premium retail offerings.
To further diversify its business, Frasers Group has made a strategic investment in luxury brand Hugo Boss, as well as taking steps towards reducing its carbon footprint and enhancing sustainability throughout its operations.