Houlihan Lokey Advises Monica Vinader

Houlihan Lokey is pleased to announce that Monica Vinader, a portfolio company of Piper, has been acquired by Bridgepoint Development Capital IV ("BDC IV"). The transaction closed on 31 March 2023. The financial terms are undisclosed.

Monica Vinader is an award-winning British demi-fine jewellery brand, with sustainability and social responsibility at the forefront of its decision-making since its foundation in 2008. Its popular and affordable products are sold in over 70 countries and the company employs more than 350 people worldwide. The customer-centric brand is digitally led with a strong online presence, complemented by 19 international stores, concessions, and a partner network. Monica Vinader has achieved strong growth in recent years, driven by a loyal following that includes celebrities and social media influencers. Overall sales have quadrupled to approximately £100 million since 2016 and the purpose-led brand has established positions in further global markets including China and the US.

As part of the transaction, Piper, one of the UK’s leading specialist investors in consumer brands, and Winona Capital, the US consumer specialist, will sell their stakes in Monica Vinader to Bridgepoint. Monica (CEO) and Gabriela Vinader (MD), who hold a minority stake in the business, will continue to lead the company supported by their strong functional team.

Bridgepoint Development Capital (BDC) is a dedicated team and fund focusing on buyouts and growth capital investments in businesses in the lower middle market. These are typically growth companies operating in sectors experiencing structural growth and with the potential to grow revenues and profits. BDC invests across six sectors: business services, consumer, financial services, healthcare, manufacturing and Industrials, and technology and media, with companies across Europe. BDC has a strong track record of adding significant value to its portfolio companies, with more than 30 investments made over the past decade.

Piper is a leading UK private equity firm specialising in investing in fast-growing consumer brands. Established by entrepreneurs in 1985, it has an enviable record of building iconic brands. Its investments have included Bloom & Wild, Mindful Chef, Orlebar Brown, Forthglade, PROPER, The Thinking Traveller, Loungers, Turtle Bay, Flat Iron, Bottlegreen, Boden, and Neom Organics. For more information, please go to www.piper.co.uk

This deal represents another successful transaction for Houlihan Lokey in the luxury and jewellery industry after recently completing the sale of Breitling to Partners Group; the sale of Tourneau to Bucherer; and the sale of Watchfinder&Co to Richemont. With more than 150 transactions announced since January 2021, Houlihan Lokey reinforces its global leadership in the consumer space.

Houlihan Lokey acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Monica Vinader. Pinsent Masons and PwC served respectively as the legal and financial due diligence advisors to Monica Vinader.