Bigben Interactive Enters Exclusive Negotiations with Modelabs to Divest Bigben Connected
Bigben Interactive announced on Monday that it has entered into exclusive negotiations with Modelabs to divest its entire subsidiary, Bigben Connected, which specializes in mobile accessories and connected devices. This move is part of a broader financial restructuring process initiated by the group since the opening of a conciliation procedure in March 2026.
A Divestiture to Strengthen Financial Structure
Bigben Interactive has selected Modelabs as the exclusive partner to explore the divestiture of the entire capital of Bigben Connected, a wholly owned subsidiary. This operation is part of a conciliation procedure opened by the Lille Métropole Commercial Court on March 4, 2026, during which the group is examining its strategic options to strengthen its financial structure. Bigben Connected specializes in the design and sale of mobile accessories, including the Force brand, as well as connected devices. The subsidiary posted a turnover of approximately 97 million euros for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, and has about 114 employees. It is positioned as a leading player in the French mobile accessories market.
A Complementary Merger Between Two Mobility Players
Modelabs, which reported a turnover of approximately 495 million euros in 2025, is a leading distributor of mobility products in France. The proposed merger would combine the complementary activities of the two companies: Modelabs is involved in the distribution of mobile terminals, while Bigben Connected designs and sells accessories. This merger would create a comprehensive French player covering the entire value chain of the mobility sector. The transaction is expected to close at the end of September 2026. However, no certainty can be given regarding the outcome of the exclusive negotiations and the conclusion of a definitive agreement between the parties.
Conditions and Timeline of the Operation
The completion of the divestiture remains subject to customary suspensive conditions: prior information and consultation with the relevant employee representative bodies, approval by the competent corporate bodies of each of the two companies, and obtaining the required regulatory approvals, if applicable. In parallel, discussions continue with financial creditors as part of the conciliation procedure, to achieve a comprehensive restructuring of the group's debt. This divestiture is part of this overall process.
