Edelman Shoe Company, Inc.

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.

Oriel Wine Company

Senior Debt Financing and Strategic Financial Advice

The Hickory Group, LLC (“THG”) served Oriel Wines (“Wines”) at various times over 3 years as a strategic financial adviser. Oriel is a leading negociant winery which was founded by John Hunt, an entrepreneur who has founded businesses on 3 continents and operates a personal portfolio ranging from real estate to technology to consumer products.  

Specifically, THG’s initial work with Oriel included assisting the founder and the Chief Operating Officer with constructing an organic financial model as well as certain strategic advice. Recent advisory work included assisting Oriel in securing a senior credit facility which allowed Oriel balance sheet flexibility.

Result: Oriel was able to rebalance operations, enhance its team and properly position the company to take advantage of the consumer trend to buy wine and distilled spirits at “off-premise” sites (i.e. wine and distilled spirits shops) rather than “on-premise” sites (i.e. bars and restaurants).