Bregal Forms Hunting Platform, Buys Dead Down Wind
Search

Bregal Forms Hunting Platform, Buys Dead Down Wind

arcus nf1Bregal Partners has formed Arcus Hunting as a new platform in the bowhunting and archery accessories category and has completed its first investment through the acquisition of Dead Down Wind, a scent control brand that mitigate a hunter’s scent while in the field.

Scott Perekslis nf3“Consistent with our broader focus on enthusiast consumer brands, we have been developing for the better part of a year a targeted micro-theme to build a leading branded player in the fragmented and growing bowhunting and archery consumables and accessories industry.  We are thrilled to announce the formation of Arcus Hunting and to take the first step in our aggressive growth plan through the acquisition of Dead Down Wind,” said Scott Perekslis, Managing Partner and co-founder of Bregal Partners.  “We believe the enthusiast nature of the category, the strong brand loyalty, and the growth of bowhunting and archery make this industry especially attractive.”

dead down wind nf1Dead Down Wind’s products are specifically formulated to reduce a hunter’s odor signature to the lowest possible level. The company utilizes a science-based broad spectrum approach that offers a wide range of scent control protection. Products include deodorizing laundry detergent that breaks down biofilms and blood stains, scent-eliminating personal care products, and field sprays that further eliminate telltale odors.  DDW is based in the Kansas City suburb of Pleasant Valley (www.deaddownwind.com).

“Through our investment in Dead Down Wind, we gain a compelling entry point into a fragmented, enthusiast space.  Scent elimination is used by more than 70% of bowhunters and is a key element of a successful hunt,” said Mr. Perekslis.  “DDW offers the most effective products in the category and exemplifies the product leadership, innovation, and compelling consumer value proposition that we are seeking in Arcus Hunting.

Bregal Partners invests from $25 million to $75 million of equity in companies operating in the consumer, food & retail, energy services and healthcare industries. Target investments generate $15 million to $75 million or more of EBITDA. The firm has $500 million of committed capital funded by a sixth-generation family foundation with roots to 1841.  Bregal is the private equity investment business of COFRA Holding AG, a European holding company for a privately-owned group of companies which also include C&A, a clothing retail organization, and Redevco, a real estate company owning a portfolio of over €7 billion across 700 properties in Europe.  Bregal Partners is based in New York (www.bregalpartners.com).

“This is an extremely exciting time for Dead Down Wind.  We had our choice of partners and it was important for me to find someone who was knowledgeable, had a passion for the industry, and a reputation for shooting straight and doing what they said they would do,” said Gary Reed, President of Dead Down Wind. “My team and I look forward to the partnership with Bregal and to building on DDW’s heritage as Arcus executes its strategy of assembling a portfolio of complementary leading brands that enhance a hunter’s experience in the field.”

Through the Arcus Hunting platform, Bregal Partners is actively engaged in the pursuit of additional investment opportunities, with particular focus on complementary brands in scents and lures, food attractants, targets, decoys, and related categories.

Harris Williams acted as financial advisor to Bregal Partners and Arcus Hunting in the transaction, and Sidley Austin served as their legal advisor.

2014 PEPD • Private Equity’s Leading News Magazine • 11-17-14

To search in site, type your keyword and hit enter