Fireman Capital Partners has acquired a majority stake in Skip Hop, a provider of infant and toddler products and accessories. Skip Hop founders Michael and Ellen Diamant will retain a meaningful ownership stake, and will continue to lead the company.
Skip Hop is a cross-category lifestyle brand serving the infant and toddler industry with both soft and hard line products. Products include diaper bags, on-the-go accessories, soft & wooden toys, bedding, bath time, feeding, and the ZOO line of toddler products. The company’s products are sold at over 4,000 retail locations in the US and in over 60 countries worldwide. Skip Hop was founded in 2003 by husband and wife team Michael and Ellen Diamant and is headquartered in New York (www.skiphop.com).
“Ellen and I – and the rest of the Skip Hop team – are thrilled to be partnering with Fireman Capital Partners,” said Mr. Diamant. “FCP has a proven track record in the consumer space, and their vision for Skip Hop is perfectly aligned with ours. We are very excited to have the resources and added experience to help take Skip Hop to the next level – all while retaining our focus on making great product.”
“We look forward to collaborating with Michael and Ellen to support the further development and growth of Skip Hop. The company has tremendous momentum. We plan to leverage our resources and operational expertise to assist Skip Hop in accelerating the build of the company’s product platform and distribution,” said Marla Sabo, Partner at Fireman Capital.
Fireman Capital Partners (FCP) was established in 2008 under Chairman Paul Fireman and Managing Partner Dan Fireman. The firm invests in consumer products companies with revenues between $20 million and $150 million. The firm is based in Boston (www.firemancapital.com).
“Skip Hop creates truly innovative products that are original, fresh and with a contemporary aesthetic. While successfully expanding its product suite and distribution channels, Skip Hop has proven the strength of its brand and the authenticity of its products. We are delighted to be partnering with this dynamic company,” said Dan Fireman, Managing Partner of FCP.
McDermott Will & Emery acted as legal advisor to Fireman Capital Partners. ROTH Capital Partners provided financial advice to Skip Hop, and Goodwin Procter acted as legal advisor.
© 2013 PEPD • Private Equity’s Leading News Magazine • 11-25-13