Clarion Capital Partners has completed the acquisition of SQAD, a provider of TV, radio and digital advertising cost analysis. The existing shareholders of SQAD, including CEO, Neil Klar, will maintain an ownership stake in SQAD.
“SQAD has an exceptional management team and is highly respected within the media industry,” said David Ragins, Managing Director with Clarion Capital Partners. “We are in a media landscape where the value of timely and accurate data to make critical advertising decisions is unprecedented, and SQAD is uniquely positioned to capitalize on this revolution thanks to its exceptional data-focused products and industry leadership position.”
SQAD is a provider of TV, radio and digital advertising cost analysis. SQAD provides media data to advertising agencies, buying services, advertisers, television and radio stations, cable operators, program syndicators and Internet publishers. SQAD is headquartered in Tarrytown, NY (www.sqad.com).
Neil Klar will remain CEO of SQAD and continue to lead and oversee the operations of the business. Joining the leadership team, and as part of Clarion’s investment, SQAD has hired industry veteran Stephen Baker as its CFO.
“SQAD is a tremendous platform for organic growth and add-on acquisitions,” said Mr. Ragins. “Clarion will provide SQAD with added resources and experience to evaluate potential partnerships and acquisitions that offer additional value for SQAD’s customers.”
Clarion Capital Partners is a middle market private equity firm that invests from $15 million to $50 million in companies that have EBITDAs greater than $10 million. Sectors of interest include: business services; healthcare services; specialty financial services; consumer products; specialty retail; and media & entertainment. Clarion is based in New York (www.clarion-capital.com).
Debt financing for this transaction consisted of a senior credit facility provided by Abacus Finance Group and a subordinated note provided by BB&T Capital Partners and Stellus Capital Management.
© 2013 PEPD • Private Equity’s Leading News Magazine • 11-6-13
