Private equity firm Consortium Brand Partners (CBP) has acquired interior design, furniture and lifestyle company Jonathan Adler, which, with its approach to “modern American glamour”, has expanded its small base of stores in the United States.
CBP, in partnership with American Exchange Group, a specialist in fashion accessories, design, manufacturing and distribution, closed the transaction on December 23, 2024.
Described as an iconic retailer renowned for its bold, modern aesthetic and creative design sensibility, Jonathan Adler was founded three decades ago by the eponymous designer and is probably best known for his distinctive approach to decor, furniture , table tops and decorative accessories. , lighting, as well as large-scale residential and hotel design.
Potter, designer and author Jonathan Adler launched his eponymous brand after leaving his current job to pursue his first love: ceramics. In 1993, high-end department store Barneys purchased his pottery collection and five years later he opened his first store in Soho, Manhattan, selling textiles, tableware and furniture.
Today, Jonathan Adler is a design firm with stores worldwide, an e-commerce site, residential and commercial projects, and a wholesale business with more than 1,000 distribution points worldwide. world. The company also has around ten stores, including one in London.
CBP buys Jonathan Adler and more
The acquisition of Jonathan Adler is CBP’s third in 18 months, following investments in other lifestyle companies, including Draper James, founded by actress and entrepreneur Reese Witherspoon and whose styles are inspired by southern United States, and Outdoor Voices, a premium sports and leisure clothing brand. brand.
CBP took an approximately 70% ownership interest in Draper James in September 2023, while retaining Draper James’ existing management team, led by CEO Erin Moennich, CFO and COO Sarah Foley and design lead Kathryn Sukey. Reese Witherspoon remains a partner and member of the company’s board of directors.
The acquisition of athleisure lifestyle brand Outdoor Voices, founded in 2013 by Tyler Haney, most recently took place in June of last year.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jonathan Adler to the CBP family,” said Jonathan Greller, President and Co-Founder of Consortium Brand Partners. “Jonathan Adler’s exceptional talent and vision have made the brand a beloved leader in interior design for decades. This acquisition not only expands our offering in the interior design space, but also enhances our ability to create compelling, timeless brand experiences that resonate with consumers across multiple lifestyle categories in a fun and beautiful way. .
American Exchange Group President and CEO Alen Mamrout added of the deal: “Partnering with CBP on this acquisition allows us to combine our manufacturing and distribution expertise with their strength in in terms of strategic investments and brand development. Together, we are committed to elevating the Jonathan Adler brand to even greater heights, expanding its global reach and product offerings.
Jonathan Adler Store Growth
Jonathan Adler will continue in his role as founder and creative director. The company will also continue to operate its retail stores in the US and UK, through the strategic partnership with American Exchange Group, and expand its physical presence and further develop its offerings and categories for international wholesale accounts. current and future. » declared the partners.
Consortium Brand Partners describes itself as a “visionary growth fund manager” dedicated to acquiring and amplifying high-potential brands known for great products anchored in a strong philosophy and powerful story.
American Exchange Group specializes in fashion accessories products, retail and brand management.