Darts Corner have become that latest in our industry to come into the orbit of private equity. Today’s announcement of their being aquired by Ethos sees them join Nodor, Harrows, and Target in attempting to fully use this source of capital and expertise and take advantage of these ‘darts boom’ times:
“…Darts Corner, the UK specialist darts retailer and brand owner, has announced it has been acquired by the private equity firm; Ethos Partners, with Key Capital Partners (“Key”) completing its successful exit from the business.
Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Bolton, Darts Corner has grown from a niche online retailer into a global e-commerce platform, with both proprietary and third-party brands. The company now serves customers in over 100 countries and is recognised for its fast-growing challenger brands and e-commerce expertise as well as its support of professional and aspiring players active in major competitions.
Since partnering with Key in 2020, Darts Corner has focused on strengthening its brand portfolio, expanding internationally, and improving operational capabilities through investment in both systems and the team. During this period revenues grew from £11m to over £21m in 2025, with growth across direct-to-consumer, marketplace, and trade channels.
The secondary buyout by Ethos, who have a demonstrable track record of success investing in direct to consumer focussed companies, supports Darts Corner’s continued international expansion and own brand development.
Craig Heenighan, Chief Executive Officer of Darts Corner, said:
“We’ve made fantastic progress over the past few years with Key’s support, and we’re now well positioned for the next phase of growth. Ethos Partners brings a collaborative and entrepreneurial approach that aligns with our ambitions, and we look forward to working together to further scale the business.”
Ben Kirby, Partner at Ethos, added:
“Darts Corner is a well-established platform with strong brand foundations and a very capable leadership team. We’re excited to support Craig and the business as it continues to grow and capitalise on global interest in the sport.”
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Anyone who reads business news or even catches segments on TV etc. will be aware that these type of external buy outs can prove a mixed blessing. Sometimes they are hugely helpful and allow modernisation and expansion into other markets and bring other benefits.
Yet, there are also many stories of later struggles, due to the non specific knowledge of those involved, and indeed returns to private ownership.
So far, in darts, it has seemed a mainly positive development but it is still very much a stoty in progress.
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Image: Darts Corner
