Brentwood Associates, a leading consumer-focused private equity investment firm, announced it has acquired J.McLaughlin, a preeminent designer, marketer and multi-channel retailer of classic American sportswear with modern relevance.
Founded in 1977 and headquartered in Brooklyn, NY, J.McLaughlin is a lifestyle brand rooted in the American traditions of sport, work and play. The brand designs proprietary apparel and accessories for men and women with an emphasis on impeccable craftsmanship and timeless style, with standout colors and a signature portfolio of prints. Currently, the company operates 103 retail locations along the Eastern seaboard, Midwest, Texas and California and has a rapidly growing e-commerce business through www.jmclaughlin.com. The brand is known for its exemplary customer service and distinctive store environments.
Commenting on the Brentwood partnership, Kevin McLaughlin, Chief Creative Officer and co-founder of the brand said, “We are extremely proud of what we have achieved in our thirty-eight year history, and we’re excited to partner with Brentwood to usher in the next phase of J.McLaughlin’s journey.” McLaughlin continued, “Brentwood has proven through prior investments to be a value-added partner and their experience in both the direct-to-consumer and retail channels will be a unique resource as we continue to grow our brand.”
“J.McLaughlin offers distinct, timeless merchandise, and it’s a perfect fit for Brentwood and our investment strategy. We see a significant opportunity to continue growing the company across all channels of distribution, by both increasing the current retail footprint and investing in the company’s direct marketing efforts, both online and offline,” said Steve Moore, a partner at Brentwood. “We have enjoyed working with the J.McLaughlin management team, and we are excited to build upon the solid foundation that the team has created.”
“J.McLaughlin is an emerging lifestyle brand with an impressive following of loyal customers in sophisticated urban neighborhoods, affluent suburban main streets and resort destinations. We are thrilled to be partnering with the company and plan to leverage the strength of the brand to accelerate the company’s growth,” said Roger Goddu, a partner at Brentwood Associates.
J.McLaughlin was advised by The Sage Group, LLC and its legal counsel was Kirkland & Ellis LLP. Brentwood was represented by Greenberg Traurig, LLP on the transaction and Kirkland & Ellis LLP on the debt financing. Golub Capital provided debt financing supporting the acquisition.
The Sage Group served as exclusive financial advisor to J.McLaughlin.