Exclusive Financial Advisor to Stuart Weitzman on Sale to Jones Apparel Group
Stuart Weitzman Holdings, a leading designer, manufacturer, wholesaler and retailer of premium women’s shoes and handbags in approximately 60 countries, made famous by his trademark use of unique materials and keen attention to detail, Stuart Weitzman owns and operated 38 retail stores in the U.S., 7 stores internationally and provides exclusive licenses at 29 retailers to operate the Stuart Weitzman stores outside of the United States. Stuart Weitzman shareholders engaged Financo to facilitate a strategic partnership with Jones Apparel Group to fuel future growth, maximize the return for outside shareholders, and meet the founder’s priorities.
Due to its long standing relationship with Stuart Weitzman, Financo recognized the need to negotiate a creative, multi-step transaction structure that met the short and long-term needs of all parties involved. In the initial stage of the deal, Jones acquired a majority interest in the business, with the selling shareholders retaining a significant minority position and the ability to realize additional value as the business continued to grow.
As a result of the transaction, Stuart Weitzman found accelerated expansion, enhanced reputation and heightened consumer reach.