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Kate Moss model agency joins Posh and Becks
10.08.09
The celebrity management firm behind David and Victoria Beckham has snapped up the Storm fashion model agency which boasts catwalk stars including Kate Moss, it was announced today.
Simon Fuller's 19 Entertainment, which also created hit talent shows American Idol and Pop Idol, has acquired a 51% controlling stake in London-based Storm Model Management.
The deal - for an undisclosed sum - comes after more than a year of talks and brings together some of the world's biggest celebrities across fashion, music and sport.
Storm counts supermodels on its books such as Lily Cole, Cindy Crawford and Eva Herzigova, while 19 boasts a roster ranging from The Beckhams to singer Kelly Clarkson and tennis star Andy Murray.
Mr Fuller, who previously managed the Spice Girls, said the takeover cements 19's move further into the fashion world, adding to the firm's portfolio that includes Victoria Beckham's fashion collection and a joint venture with designer Roland Mouret.
"With 19 moving more into the world of fashion and style, the opportunity to join forces with Storm and its incredible heritage and dynamic approach to the future, was irresistible," he said.
Storm was founded in 1987 by brother and sister Sarah Doukas and Simon Chambers.
It has been increasingly moving into celebrity management, with Harry Potter actress Emma Watson, Lily Allen and singer Paolo Nutini now on its books.
Ms Doukas said: "Working with Simon Fuller and 19 will provide Storm will the opportunity to work competitively, creatively and on an international level."
Its founders are set to continue in their roles at the helm of Storm, according to 19.
Mr Fuller's business 19 is now a division of CKX after selling a stake to the New York-listed group in 2005.
