Sale of Edelman Shoe Company to Brown Shoe Company, Inc.

The Hickory Group, LLC (“THG”) served Edelman Shoe Company, Inc. (“Edelman”) for over 3 years as strategic financial adviser and guided Edelman through a multi-year transaction process that allowed the founders to create generational wealth. Sam Edelman is a unique blend of fashion designer and businessman. Per the Edelman web site, “He [Sam] was able to combine his style savvy and expertise in shoemaking to create collections that were eminently fashionable and beautifully constructed at an attainable price point.”

Specifically, THG worked with Edelman to structure a joint venture agreement between Edelman with Brown Shoe Company, Inc. (“Brown”) which (i) provided Edelman with the financial resources necessary to expand operations, (ii) allowed Edelman to retain their management and design independence, (iii) provided Edelman with a uniquely structured exit.

Result: Edelman was able to grow revenue by over 4x during the period of initial investment to Brown’s acquisition of the remaining equity stake held by the founders.