Sony Music U.K. has ventured into the merchandise business with the acquisition of British company Kontraband. The firm will be working closely with its U.S. counterpart at Sony, The Thread Shop.

The acquisition aims to enhance and strengthen Sony Music’s presence in the growing area of merchandise, and will see Kontraband working collaboratively with each of Sony Music’s labels and their extensive artist rosters.

“We are continuously looking for ways to diversify our business and the acquisition of Kontraband allows us to help our artists enhance their brand and deliver new and exciting commercial opportunities,” said Nicola Tuer, COO of Sony Music U.K. and Ireland.

Kontraband’s Paul Entwistle and Justin Smith have more than 20 years of experience handling merchandise for artists including Camila Cabello, Kylie Minogue, Iggy Pop, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, The Streets and Keane. As part of the deal, they will now relocate their office the Sony U.K. headquarters in Kensington from Finsbury Park in London.