Development Holding Company Announces Strategic Investment in Slough Town Football Club

Partnership brings together DH’s international growth ambitions and Slough Town FC’s long-term vision for sustainable sporting and community development

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM, October 26, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Development Holding Company (DH), a Kuwait-based diversified investment group and public holding company focused on building and scaling high-potential businesses, has entered into a binding agreement to acquire a majority 70% shareholding in A23 Football Group Limited, the ownership company of Slough Town Football Club, marking a significant step in DH’s international expansion and its growing interest in the global sports sector.

The partnership brings together DH’s investment and commercial expertise with the ambitions of Slough Town FC, one of English non-league football’s historic community clubs, as it looks to strengthen its sporting foundations, expand its community reach and build for long-term sustainable growth.

The acquisition will take place through a phased transaction over three years, with DHC's shareholding increasing progressively to 70%. The transaction has received all applicable regulatory and football authority approvals.

Founded in 1890 and widely known as “The Rebels”, Slough Town has a long history in English football. The club has competed at the highest level of the non-league game, enjoyed memorable FA Cup campaigns and appeared at Wembley Stadium in the 1973 FA Amateur Cup Final.

Under its current leadership, the club has been pursuing a strategy centred on four key pillars — sustainability, talent, fan experience and community — including strengthening its academy and player development pathways and expanding women’s, youth and community football.

“Football has always been a personal passion of mine, and I strongly believe in the extraordinary potential of the global sports industry,” said Talal Al Ajmi, Founder and Chairman of Development Holding.

“As DH continues to diversify its portfolio and expand its international presence, we see Slough Town Football Club as a highly compelling opportunity. It is a historic club with a loyal supporter base, a strong community identity and an ambitious vision for the future, located in a dynamic UK town with considerable economic and social potential.”

Al Ajmi said DH’s approach would focus on responsible, long-term development while preserving the identity and heritage of the club.

“We have great confidence in the team’s capabilities and in the direction established by the club’s leadership. Any future involvement from DH would be guided by a long-term commitment to responsible growth, with the club’s heritage, supporters and community remaining at the heart of its journey.”

Ashley Smith, CEO of Slough Town FC said the club had made significant progress since the group took over in 2023, including improvements to its sporting venue, community presence and academy structure.

Reem Al-Rashi
Development Holding Company
reem.alrashi@vimarkets.com