Business news : Royal Robbins Acquired by Private Equity Firm

Bruckmann, Rosser, Sherrill & Co. (BRS), a New York-based private equity firm, has acquired Royal Robbins, Inc. from Kellwood Company, a Sun Capital portfolio company.

“We chose to partner with BRS because of their passion for the outdoor sector and ability to provide valuable strategic guidance,” saod Bob Orlando, president and CEO of Royal Robbins. “We also recognized that BRS truly believes in the Royal Robbins brand and supports our growth strategy. We look forward to partnering with BRS as we move forward.”

Royal Robbins - founded in 1968 by a world-renowned pioneer of American rock climbing - is a leading designer, manufacturer, marketer and retailer of outdoor and travel apparel.  Royal Robbins has gained worldwide recognition for its casual and affordable active wear with a commitment to innovation, style, utility and a connection to the core customer. The company is well known for designing products with technical features for consumers seeking performance-oriented garments, but with the style and comfort to cross over into everyday life. Royal Robbins’ collection of men’s and women’s products can be found in the most respected outdoor and specialty retailers throughout the U.S. and abroad.

Stephen Sherrill, co-founder and managing director of BRS, said, “We are very excited to partner with Bob, Loren, Jud and the rest of the Royal Robbins team. They have built a strong heritage brand by remaining true to outdoor and travel enthusiasts.  The outdoor sector has been and will continue to be a key focus of BRS. We look forward to supporting the Company’s continued growth.”
The transaction represents the sixth investment by BRS’s latest fund (raised in 2008) and its second investment of 2012.

BRS has $1.4 billion of committed capital under management in three investment partnerships, focused on investing in middle market consumer goods and services businesses. Since 1996, BRS has purchased over 40 portfolio companies for aggregate consideration of over $6.4 billion. In addition, BRS portfolio companies have completed approximately $1.9 billion of add-on acquisitions. Prior to forming the firm, the founders of BRS were in the private equity business at Citicorp Venture Capital where they closed 25 transactions with aggregate transaction values totaling $5.8 billion.

( SportsOneSource Media )