Travers Smith LLP has advised Ascential plc ("Ascential"), a longstanding client of the firm, on the proposed sale, subject to shareholder approval, of its product design business ("WGSN") to funds advised by Apax Partners LLP. The sale is for consideration of up to £700 million (subject to customary closing adjustments and contingent consideration).

Ascential has also entered into an agreement for the sale, subject to shareholder approval, of its digital commerce business. The two transactions combined have an enterprise value of £1.4 billion.

WGSN is a leading global consumer trend forecaster, serving customers across multiple product design industries, enabling them to understand their future consumers' changing attitudes and lifestyles ad create the exact products and experiences those consumers will need.

The Travers Smith team was led by Private Equity & Financial Sponsors Partner George Weavil, supported by Partners Victoria Bramall and Edmund Reed, Senior Associate Stuart Allan and Associates Katie O'Riordan and Varnita Singh. Tax advice was provided by Partner Madeline Gowlett and Senior Associates Sivanti Devakumar and Kaleem Khan. Commercial contracts advice was provided by Partner Dan Reavill and Senior Counsel Michael Ross.

Ascential was also advised by Slaughter & May and Fried Frank. Apax was advised by Allen & Overy LLP.