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CVC Fund VIII and HPS Investment Partners to acquire stakes in Authentic Brands Group

CVC Capital Partners

World-leading private equity and investment firms, alongside ABG’s existing equity partners, to support the company in its next phase of global growth

Authentic Brands Group (“ABG”), a global brand development, marketing and entertainment company, today announces that funds advised by CVC Capital Partners (“CVC”) and HPS Investment Partners (“HPS”) have signed definitive agreements to purchase significant equity stakes in the company from certain current ABG shareholders. The transaction values the company at $12.7 billion in enterprise value.

“We have known CVC and HPS for many years and are thrilled that they are coming on board as significant stakeholders in ABG. Their commitment is a testament to the exceptional work our team has put forth as well as CVC and HPS’s confidence in our future growth,” said Jamie Salter, Founder, Chairman and CEO of ABG. “The entire ABG team – from our leadership to the director of first impressions – has done an incredible job of building a sustainable and scalable business with a laser focus on brand development, digital innovation, e-commerce, specialty retail, expansion into new verticals and proven business models.”

Since its founding in 2010, ABG has experienced significant growth by implementing a proven playbook that connects strong brands with best-in-class licensees and a network of partners to optimize value in the marketplace. ABG’s portfolio has grown to more than 30 brands that are diversified across the fashion, luxury, outdoor, home, entertainment, events, media and fine arts sectors. The acquisition of Reebok, which closes in Q1 of 2022, will bring ABG’s portfolio to more than $20 billion in annual system-wide retail sales with global distribution in more than 150 countries and highlights ABG’s ability to successfully integrate world-class brands into its unique platform.

“The investments from CVC Capital and HPS Investment Partners are a strong vote of confidence in ABG’s long-term vision and strategic approach,” said Nick Woodhouse, President and CMO of ABG. “We are primed to continue furthering our global presence, acquiring new entertainment and lifestyle brands and driving organic growth for our portfolio.”

“We have followed ABG’s success story for several years and are delighted to be partnering with the company and its investor group,” said Chris Stadler, a Managing Partner at CVC. “The power of the ABG platform is evident in its growth to date, and we believe the company is only beginning to realize the full benefit of its scale and diversification. We look forward to working with Jamie, Nick and the talented team at ABG to create even greater value together.”

“ABG has shown that its unique business model can successfully innovate and grow brands across a broad spectrum of consumer categories, and we are excited to leverage CVC’s experience in the consumer, retail and media and entertainment sectors to support the company’s growth ambitions,” said Chris Baldwin, a Managing Partner at CVC. “We plan to work closely with the ABG team to execute on their strategic priorities, particularly around international expansion, given our extensive global footprint and experience in local markets around the world.”

“We are thrilled to partner with Jamie and his outstanding team, who we have known for nearly a decade, to support ABG’s ongoing development and growth strategy as it continues to lead the market in the brand licensing arena, underpinned by a highly differentiated and innovative acquisition and brand management platform,” said Scot French, a Governing Partner of HPS.

BlackRock Long Term Private Capital will retain its position as ABG’s largest shareholder, which it has held since 2019. Simon, General Atlantic, Leonard Green & Partners, GIC, Brookfield, Lion Capital, Jasper Ridge Partners and Shaquille O’Neal will continue to hold significant equity positions in the company.

In connection with the transaction, BofA Securities, Inc. was the M&A advisor for ABG. BofA Securities, Inc. and Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC also acted as financial advisors for ABG. Latham & Watkins LLP acted as legal counsel for ABG.

Upon closing of the transaction, which is expected in December 2021, CVC and HPS will join ABG’s Board of Directors.

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Omnia acquires Patagona to become Europe’s leading pricing software provider

Omnia Retail acquires German pricing software provider Patagona. Both companies are specialized in dynamic pricing software and with the integration Omnia will become Europe’s leading enterprise pricing solution.
“By combining our strengths, the new holding is the leading B2C-retail dynamic pricing vendor in Europe.”

 

Omnia founder & CEO Sander Roose will become the group CEO. Patagona’s founders Andreas Frankenberger and Maximilian Bank will become group CTO and CCO, respectively. Sander Roose’s view on the future of the company: “COVID driven e-commerce acceleration has increased the need for dynamic pricing software for retailers and brands in all product categories. By combining our strengths, the new holding is the leading B2C-retail dynamic pricing vendor in Europe. This step also guarantees a strong local presence in the crucial DACH region. Our main focus is further improving our service level to retailers and brands by accelerating product development. With the addition of the Patagona team, we have all the required expertise to ensure our customers can leverage the power of machine learning (AI) for pricing insights and price optimization, which is a key product priority for the coming years.”

 

“Leading the way together with a strong, ambitious and dynamic company that shares the same values.”

 

Andreas Frankenberger and Maximilian Bank believe that the effect of joining forces will have a very positive impact on the customer side: “To provide our customers with the best possible solution – in data quality as well as retail know-how – we are committed to leading the way together with a strong, ambitious and dynamic company that shares the same values as Patagona: Omnia Retail.”

 

The group raised growth financing provided by ABN Amro, which enables the group to invest more heavily in the continuous development of the platform. The funding allows the company to take a large step forward towards reaching its ultimate goal of becoming the global market leader in retail pricing software. SaaS investor Connected Capital & Partners remains on board and continues to be an important strategic partner for the company’s further growth.

 

Both companies plan to operate as one company, with locations in Amsterdam and Darmstadt. The combined leadership team is an important first step in that direction. Omnia and Patagona’s customers can continue to rely on both companies’ products as those will continue to exist.

 

About Omnia Retail
Omnia’s software uniquely combines dynamic pricing automation with various market data sources, from platform data like Google Shopping and Amazon to direct scraping. The company has over 15 years of retail and pricing experience, which makes them experts in guiding its customers on their path towards more pricing maturity. Omnia’s customers include Decathlon, Bol.com, Windeln.de, Signa Sports, Media Markt, De Bijenkorf, Philips, Samsung and Accell Group.

 

About Patagona
Patagona develops software-based e-commerce solutions. With its main products, Patagona enables online retailers to optimize their sales prices automatically and helps brands to get a global market overview of their product prices online. Using deep technical AI in their software solution, customers like METRO, Kaufland, Intersport, L’Oréal and LVMH benefit from their pricing expertise.

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Gilde Healthcare company Sanifit acquired by Vifor Pharma

GIlde Healthcare
November 22, 2021
St. Gallen (Switzerland) and Palma (Spain)
  • Vifor Pharma to acquire Sanifit, a clinical-stage cardio-renal biopharmaceutical company focused on treatments for progressive vascular calcification disorders, complementing and strengthening the Group’s growing nephrology portfolio
  • Sanifit’s lead compound, SNF472 is a novel, first-in-class inhibitor of vascular calcification in phase 3, developed for the treatment of calcific uremic arteriolopathy (CUA) and peripheral artery disease (PAD) in patients with end-stage kidney disease
  • Purchase price includes an upfront payment of EUR 205 million, precommercial milestones for up to EUR 170 million and progressive commercial milestones

St. Gallen (Switzerland) and Palma (Spain), 22 November 2021 – Vifor Pharma and Sanifit Therapeutics, a clinical-stage cardio-renal biopharmaceutical company focused on treatments for progressive vascular calcification disorders, today announced the companies have entered into a definitive agreement. Vifor Pharma will acquire Sanifit, for the continued development and commercialization of SNF472, a novel, first-in-class inhibitor of vascular calcification for the treatment of CUA and PAD in patients with end-stage kidney disease. There are currently no approved medicines indicated for CUA or for PAD specifically in this population. SNF472 has already been granted orphan drug designation for the treatment of CUA and PAD by the US Food and Drug Administration and for CUA by the European Medicines Agency.

Under the terms of the acquisition agreement, Vifor Pharma will acquire 100% of the outstanding shares in Sanifit Therapeutics, receiving full global rights for SNF472, further enhancing the company’s portfolio of innovative assets. Shareholders of Sanifit will receive an upfront payment of EUR 205 million, clinical, regulatory and market access milestones for up to EUR 170 million and tiered sales-based milestones that could reach mid to high triple digit EUR millions at peak sales.

“Today’s exciting announcement helps us to build on our strong nephrology pipeline to help end-stage kidney disease patients globally”, commented Abbas Hussain, Chief Executive Officer of Vifor Pharma Group. “Through the acquisition of Sanifit and its lead compound SNF472, we will further expand our growing nephrology pipeline into vascular calcification, a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with end-stage kidney disease. SNF472 is the only novel asset addressing a great unmet medical need for end-stage kidney disease patients with calcific uremic arteriolopathy and peripheral artery disease. We look forward to bringing this highly promising, innovative treatment option to over 330,000 patients in the US and Europe, living with CUA or PAD, as soon as possible.”

Joan Perelló, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of Sanifit, said; “From the very beginning, Sanifit has been a pioneer of new approaches to treat calcification disorders, a huge area of unmet need. This agreement is a testament to the enduring commitment of our dedicated team and investors, as well as our unique approach to combat vascular calcification, which originated from the University of the Balearic Islands. We are excited to join forces with Vifor Pharma, which has a world-renowned commitment to patient focused cardio-renal therapies. Vifor Pharma is the ideal partner to take the development of Sanifit’s calcification franchise forward and bring these novel treatments to patients as quickly as possible.”

Sanifit conducted a phase-IIb trial (CaLIPSO) to assess the effect of SNF472 on slowing arterial calcification, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease in dialysis patients. The trial met its primary endpoint in reducing coronary artery calcium progression in patients treated with SNF472, compared to patients receiving placebo over a 52-week period. SNF472 is currently in phase-III trials in CUA in patients on dialysis, to measure primary endpoints for wound healing and pain. A phase-III trial in PAD in patients on dialysis, is planned to commence in 2022.

Closing of the transaction is contingent on customary closing conditions, including the FDI procedure in Spain and merger filings in certain countries, and is expected to take place in Q1 2022.

About Vifor Pharma Group
Vifor Pharma Group is a global pharmaceuticals company. It aims to become the global leader in iron deficiency, nephrology and cardio-renal therapies. The company is a partner of choice for pharmaceuticals and innovative patient-focused solutions. Vifor Pharma Group strives to help patients around the world with severe and chronic diseases lead better, healthier lives. The company develops, manufactures and markets pharmaceutical products for precision patient care. Vifor Pharma Group holds a leading position in all its core business activities and consists of the following companies: Vifor Pharma and Vifor Fresenius Medical Care Renal Pharma (a joint company with Fresenius Medical Care). Vifor Pharma Group is headquartered in Switzerland, and listed on the Swiss Stock Exchange (SIX Swiss Exchange, VIFN, ISIN: CH0364749348). For more information, please visit viforpharma.com.

About Sanifit Therapeutics
Sanifit is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on treatments for vascular calcification disorders. The Company is a spin-off from the University of the Balearic Islands and has offices in Spain and the U.S. Sanifit’s lead asset, SNF472, successfully completed a Phase 2 proof of concept study in calciphylaxis, and showed a significant reduction in progression of coronary calcification in a Phase 2b study in hemodialysis patients. A Phase 3 pivotal study in calciphylaxis is currently underway and the Company is also pursuing peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in patients with end-stage kidney disease as a second indication for SNF472. In 2015 and 2019, Sanifit announced the largest private biotech fundraises in Spain and has been supported by a variety of healthcare focused investors including: Caixa Capital Risc, Ysios Capital, Lundbeckfonden Ventures, Forbion Capital Partners, Gilde Healthcare, Andera Partners, Columbus Venture Partners, Alta Life Sciences, Baxter Ventures, HealthEquity and INNVIERTE ECONOMÍA SOSTENIBLE, a venture capital fund managed by the Centre for the Development of Industrial Technology (“CDTI”) of the Spanish Government. Sanifit is headquartered in Palma, Spain.

About Gilde Healthcare
Gilde Healthcare is a specialized healthcare investor with two fund strategies: Venture&Growth and Private Equity. The firm operates out of offices in Utrecht (The Netherlands), Frankfurt (Germany) and Cambridge (United States). Gilde Healthcare Venture&Growth invests in fast growing, innovative companies active in (bio)pharmaceuticals, healthtech and medtech that are based in Europe and North America. For more information, please visit: www.gildehealthcare.com.

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ANI Pharmaceuticals Completes Acquisition of Novitium Pharma, Significantly Enhancing R&D Capabilities and Scale of Generics and CDMO Businesses

Ampersand
  • Combined company creates generics growth engine with technical capabilities to bring complex, high-value products to market in efficient and cost effect manner
  • Proven track record with largest number of Competitive Generic Therapy (CGT) approvals
  • Deep pipeline with a focus on niche opportunities, including 505(b)(2) candidates in Oncology and Hypertension
  • Pro-forma September 30, 2021 YTD revenues are $202.5 million and non-GAAP EBITDA $66.6 million
  • Founders Samy Shanmugam and Chad Gassert to join Executive Team and Mr. Shanmugam to join Board of Directors
  • Immediately accretive to Adjusted non-GAAP earnings per share
  • New capital structure in place

BAUDETTE, Minn., November 22, 2021–(BUSINESS WIRE)–ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: ANIP) (ANI or the Company) today announced that it has completed the previously announced acquisition of Novitium Pharma, a privately held, New Jersey-based pharmaceutical company with development, manufacturing, and commercialization capabilities.

“Today marks a major milestone for ANI and the many patients who rely on our high-quality, cost-effective medications. With the completion of this acquisition, we bring on board a world-class R&D engine in the generic and 505 (b)(2) sectors, and a highly-compliant U.S. based manufacturing facility, positioning us well for sustainable long-term growth. Novitium has continued to perform in-line or above our investment thesis since deal signing on March 9th with thirteen new product approvals, strong quarter-on-quarter EBITDA growth and a successful FDA GMP inspection completed in July 2021,” stated Nikhil Lalwani, President and Chief Executive Officer of ANI.

“ANI is thrilled to welcome the expertise and leadership of Novitium’s founders, Samy Shanmugam, Chad Gassert and Vijay Thorappadi, along with over 100 talented and dedicated employees, who have joined the ANI team. Our robust product pipeline includes several more CGT and 505 (b)(2) candidates and will be further expanded to maximize the value of our bolstered R&D engine,” concluded Lalwani.

Samy Shanmugam, co-founder of Novitium and ANI’s new Head of Research & Development and Chief Operating Officer of New Jersey Operations added, “Today is an exciting day for all of our employees, as we combine the complementary strengths of our two platforms. We are energized by today’s events and look forward to strong contributions in driving the future success of an united ANI.”

“ANI’s new capital structure, comprised of the recently completed $75 million equity raise and the closure of a new $300 million Term Loan-B, $40 million revolver and $25 million PIPE, gives the Company significant flexibility in supporting the integration of Novitium into ANI, ensuring a strong Purified CortrophinTM Gel commercial launch and will propel the next phase of growth for ANI,” stated Stephen Carey, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of ANI.

Compelling Investment Thesis

  • Proven R&D Engine Fuels Sustainable Growth

Novitium has a strong pipeline with 20+ new product launches planned in the next 18 months, including products with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Competitive Generic Therapy designation. Novitium received thirteen approvals since March 2021, several of which were limited competition launches. Novitium’s proven R&D leadership team of Samy Shanmugam, Chad Gassert and Vijay Thorapaddi will drive the combined company’s R&D engine.

  • Expands ANI’s R&D Pipeline Focused on Niche Opportunities

Novitium has expanded the 505 (b)(2) portfolio beyond the three initial 505(b)(2) candidates in Oncology and Hypertension. The combined company has also expanded dosage forms to include injectables and gels.

  • Enhances scale of CDMO Business & U.S. Based Manufacturing Capacity.

Novitium adds nine new customers to ANI’s growing CDMO business. Additionally, Novitium brings a U.S. based, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility enhancing manufacturing capabilities and CDMO opportunities.

  • Compelling Financial Profile

Immediately accretive to Adjusted non-GAAP earnings per share. The acquisition diversifies ANI’s revenue base by contributing to each of its reporting segments: Generics, Contract Manufacturing, Royalties/Other and, following the launch of Novitium’s 505(b)(2) pipeline products, the Brand segment.

The Transaction has satisfied customary closing conditions, and received approval from shareholders and relevant regulatory agencies, including clearance under the Hart-Scott Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act. As previously announced, the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (the FTC) has accepted the proposed consent order in connection with ANI’s definitive agreement to acquire Novitium Pharma. The divestitures required by the FTC of development rights to one generic drug and assets with respect to another generic drug are immaterial to the Company’s business and have been completed. The acceptance by the FTC satisfies all required antitrust clearances needed to be obtained for the acquisition.

Terms of the Transaction and Debt Re-Financing

Under the terms of the transaction, the Purchase Price is comprised of (i) a cash payment of $89.5 million and (ii) the issuance of 2,466,654 common shares of ANI equity. Novitium is also eligible to receive (i) $25 million in contingent payments upon the achievement of financial targets related to Generics products and filing of certain ANDAs and (ii) $21.5 million in contingent payments upon the achievement of financial targets from the 505(b)(2) products.

Commensurate with the completion of the transaction, ANI retired its existing Term Loan-A credit facility (including the repayment of $200.1 million of face value outstanding) and closed a new $300 million Term Loan-B and a $25 million PIPE investment with Ampersand Capital Partners. The new credit facility also includes a $40 million revolver that is un-drawn at this time. The new debt financing is secured by substantially all the assets of ANI and its subsidiaries.

Advisors

Bourne Partners, Truist Securities and Houlihan Lokey acted as financial advisors to ANI Pharmaceuticals. SVB Leerink acted as financial advisor to Novitium Pharma and its shareholders. Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP were ANI’s legal advisors and Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP acted as legal advisors to Novitium and its shareholders.

About ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

ANI Pharmaceuticals is a diversified bio-pharmaceutical company serving patients in need by developing, manufacturing, and marketing high quality branded and generic prescription pharmaceutical products, including for diseases with high unmet medical need. For more information, please visit www.anipharmaceuticals.com.

Forward Looking Statements

To the extent any statements made in this release deal with information that is not historical, these are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements include, but are not limited to, those relating to the development, manufacturing and commercialization of future product candidates and any additional product launches from the Company’s generic pipeline, those relating to expansion of the R&D engine, expected growth and similar statements that are not historical in nature, particularly those that utilize terminology such as “anticipates,” “will,” “expects,” “plans,” “potential,” “future,” “believes,” “intends,” “continue,” other words of similar meaning, derivations of such words and the use of future dates.

Uncertainties and risks may cause the Company’s actual results to be materially different than those expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements. Uncertainties and risks include, but are not limited to, the risk that the Company may face with respect to importing raw materials; the use of single source suppliers and the time it may take to validate and qualify another supplier, if necessary; increased competition and strategies employed by competitors; the ability to realize benefits anticipated from acquisitions; costs and regulatory requirements relating to contract manufacturing arrangements; the ability of the Company to successfully maintain manufacturing capabilities and adequate commercial quantities of Cortrophin Gel at acceptable costs and quality levels; broad acceptance of Cortrophin Gel by physicians, patients and the healthcare community; the acceptance of pricing and placement of Cortrophin Gel on payers’ formularies; delays or failure in obtaining future product approvals from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration; general business and economic conditions, including the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic; market trends for our products; regulatory environment and changes; and regulatory and other approvals relating to product development and manufacturing.

More detailed information on these and additional factors that could affect the Company’s actual results are described in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including its most recent annual report on Form 10-K and quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, as well as other filings with the SEC. All forward-looking statements in this news release speak only as of the date of this news release and are based on the Company’s current beliefs, assumptions, and expectations. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211122005977/en/

Contacts

Investor Relations:
Lisa M. Wilson, In-Site Communications, Inc.
T: 212-452-2793
E: lwilson@insitecony.com

Media:
Angela Salerno-Robin
dna Communications
312-445-8219
ASalerno-Robin@dna-comms.com

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Advent International acquires leading specialty chemicals solutions provider Caldic from Goldman Sachs Asset Management

Advent International
  • Caldic to join forces with GTM, creating a global market leader in specialty chemicals distribution that will operate under the Caldic brand
  • Extending global reach, the combination will accelerate growth prospects with investment in employees, technology and sites
  • Advent to add significant expertise in chemicals, resources and capital

Frankfurt, 22nd November 2021 – Advent International (“Advent”), one of the largest and most experienced global private equity investors, today announced that it has reached conditional agreement with Goldman Sachs Asset Management to acquire Caldic BV (“Caldic”), a global premium provider of value-added life sciences and specialty chemicals solutions with the ambition to be a true partner to its customers and principals. Caldic will then merge with Advent portfolio company Grupo Transmerquim S.A. (GTM), one of the leading chemical distributors in Latin America.

Caldic’s product portfolio includes innovative food ingredients, natural products and functional solutions for a variety of life sciences and industrial end-market segments. With a leading presence in Europe, North America and Asia-Pacific, Caldic employs around 1,200 people across 35 locations. The business generated sales of about €1 billion in 2020.

Ronald Ayles, Managing Partner and Global Head of Chemicals at Advent International added, “For the chemical and distribution industry, this is a time of great change, reorganization and consolidation – and for us as a committed private equity buyer, one of great opportunity. As with all our investments, we pursue a long-term growth approach and intend to support Caldic throughout its next phase of growth. We see great prospects in the combination with GTM, nearly doubling the size of the New Caldic from the start and we look forward to working in close cooperation with the highly qualified employees and management team to firmly establish the combination as a global growth platform.”

“Caldic has a well-established market position and very attractive growth opportunities. Its strengths lie in its global network combined with local expertise, giving the flexibility to meet customer-specific requirements. Combining this business with GTM, the leader in chemicals in the Latin-American market, will create a truly global industry leader,” said Patrice Etlin, Managing Partner at Advent International in Latin America.

With over 30 investments, Advent is one of the most experienced investors in the global chemical industry. The firm invests in well positioned companies with significant operational and strategic potential. Together with the management teams of its portfolio companies, as well as its strong global network of sector teams, external industry experts and operational partners, Advent seeks to create sustainable value by driving revenue and earnings growth.

In 2014, the firm acquired GTM, the second-largest chemical distributor in Latin America. Over its 35-year history, GTM has grown to become one of only two chemical distribution companies with a full Latin-American footprint. Under Advent’s ownership, the combination will have the opportunity to continue its growth and further accelerate it, both organically as well as through acquisitions.

Leveraging this expertise, Advent plans to support the management team in its efforts to establish the combination as a strong global platform. Advent’s strategy for the business centers on substantially investing in its employees, technology and sites. Additionally, Advent sees further growth potential through expansion and investment to strengthen the company’s already well-established market position.

The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2022, subject to customary conditions and regulatory approvals. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

About Advent International

Founded in 1984, Advent International is one of the largest and most experienced global private equity investors. The firm has invested in over 380 private equity investments across 42 countries, and as of June 30, 2021, had €68 billion in assets under management. With 15 offices in 12 countries, Advent has established a globally integrated team of over 245 private equity investment professionals across North America, Europe, Latin America and Asia. The firm focuses on investments in five core sectors, including business and financial services; health care; industrial; retail, consumer and leisure; and technology.

Advent has invested in over 30 companies in the chemicals industry over recent years. Examples include Röhm, one of the global market leaders in methacrylate chemicals, allnex, a global leader in resins for the paints and coatings industry, and Oxea, a leading supplier of oxo alcohols and oxo derivatives. In addition, Advent has invested in companies including VIAKEM, a leading manufacturer of fine chemicals, and GTM, a transnational distributor of chemical raw materials in Latin America.

After 35 years dedicated to international investing, Advent remains committed to partnering with management teams to deliver sustained revenue and earnings growth for its portfolio companies.

For more information, visit:
Website: www.adventinternational.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/advent-international

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CompanyCam Raises $30M in Series B Funding Round to Help Contractors Document Jobs, Communicate with Crews, and Cover Their Butts

Nebraska-based SaaS for contractors set for growth and product development.

CompanyCam, the Lincoln-based photo documentation and communication app for contractors, announced today the close of a $30 million Series B round led by New York-based global private equity and venture capital firm Insight Partners. Other investors in this round included JMI Equity and WndrCo.

With a growing base of over 100,000 users, this investment comes as CompanyCam celebrates its sixth year in business. CompanyCam will use the funds to accelerate rapid growth, expand product functionality, and build up the in-house and remote teams to meet consumer demand. CompanyCam continues to work on releasing new features, refining the core product, and growing—both its user base and company.

“Simply put, this capital will be fueling CompanyCam’s ability to grow aggressively into new markets by doubling down on proven strategies as well as expanding our approach to go-to-market,” Founder and CEO of CompanyCam, Luke Hansen said. “It will also allow us to serve our current markets even better with new and enhanced functionality.”

“Photo documentation is a critical pain point faced by contractors today and CompanyCam seamlessly addresses this problem with its intuitive technology,” said Matt Koran, Vice President at Insight Partners. “The industry-specific and first-hand knowledge of CompanyCam’s management stands out within the market and we look forward to partnering with the company as they continue to grow.” Matt Koran will join CompanyCam’s board.

This Series B investment is paired with another major announcement from CompanyCam —the release of showcases, a new feature that allows users to publish their CompanyCam projects directly to their websites in seconds. The feature helps contractors win business, showing potential customers a gallery they can filter by project type.

“CompanyCam’s ability to help contractors capture field data and deliver it in real-time has revolutionized how contractors work,” said Brian Hersman, General Partner at JMI Equity. “We are excited to partner with CompanyCam to support their rapid growth.”

“As longtime builders and investors in productivity software, we are thrilled to partner with CompanyCam as they bring easy-to-use, digital workflows to the construction industry,” said ChenLi Wang, General Partner at WndrCo.

About CompanyCam
Founded in 2015, CompanyCam has revolutionized how contractors work. Users can take unlimited photos, which are stamped by time and location, sent immediately to the cloud, and stored securely. This complete photo software enables contractors in every industry to manage, monitor, and share project progress from anywhere. With over 350 million photos in the cloud and counting, CompanyCam is dedicated to providing contractors with the easiest and most productive photo solution. For more information, visit CompanyCam.com.

About Insight Partners
Insight Partners is a leading global venture capital and private equity firm investing in high-growth technology and software ScaleUp companies that are driving transformative change in their industries. Founded in 1995, Insight Partners has invested in more than 400 companies worldwide and has raised through a series of funds more than $30 billion in capital commitments. Insight’s mission is to find, fund, and work successfully with visionary executives, providing them with practical, hands-on software expertise to foster long-term success. Across its people and its portfolio, Insight encourages a culture around a belief that ScaleUp companies and growth create opportunity for all. For more information on Insight and all its investments, visit insightpartners.com or follow us on Twitter @insightpartners.

About JMI
JMI Equity is a growth equity firm focused on investing in leading software companies. Founded in 1992, JMI has invested in over 165 businesses in its target markets, successfully completed over 110 exits, and raised more than $6 billion of committed capital. JMI partners with exceptional management teams to help build their companies into industry leaders. For more information, visit jmi.com.

About WndrCo
WndrCo is a technology investment firm which partners with industry-leading founders and companies. The firm was started by Sujay Jaswa (former Head of Business & CFO at Dropbox) and Jeffrey Katzenberg (former CEO of DreamWorks). Please visit wndrco.com for more information.

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Sierra Space Secures Record $1.4 Billion Series A Growth Investment and Achieves $4.5 Billion Valuation

Investment led by General Atlantic, Coatue and Moore Strategic Ventures, with participation from funds and accounts managed by BlackRock Private Equity Partners and AE Industrial Partners

• Sierra Space secures $1.4 billion Series A capital raise; represents largest aerospace and defense capital raise globally in 2021, second-largest private capital raise globally in the aerospace and defense sector ever
• Growth capital accelerates the realization of Sierra Space’s vision of enabling humanity to build civilizations in space, while enhancing life on Earth
• Sierra Space is building the first commercial business platform in space; investment accelerates development of the company’s revolutionary Dream Chaser Spaceplane and expandable LIFE Commercial Space Station
• Dream Chaser Spaceplane, a family of vehicles for cargo, crew and national security applications, is in advanced stage of development and production and is under a multi-billion-dollar contract with NASA to perform cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station starting late next year
• Sierra Space is uniquely positioned to drive and capitalize on rapidly expanding low Earth orbit (LEO) economy via its differentiated and technologically advanced products

November 19, 2021

Sierra Space, a leading commercial space company with 1,100 employees, more than 500 missions and over 30 years of space flight heritage, announced today a $1.4 billion Series A investment of primary capital, the first capital raise for the company and the second-largest private capital raise globally in the aerospace and defense sector ever.

Sierra Space aims to build the future of space transportation, commercial space destinations and infrastructure, and enabling technologies that will help to build a vibrant, growing commercial space economy. As the LEO economy reaches a critical inflection point – driven by the convergence of the increasing commercialization of space, renewed public interest and defense considerations – Sierra Space is developing foundational infrastructure to support this growing ecosystem. By opening up affordable access to space, Sierra Space hopes to enable existing businesses, entrepreneurs, researchers and governments to create exciting breakthroughs that can empower humanity to begin new civilizations in space and benefit life on Earth.

The round is led by General Atlantic, Coatue and Moore Strategic Ventures, with participation from funds and accounts managed by BlackRock Private Equity Partners, AE Industrial Partners, and various strategic family offices. The funding will accelerate the development of the company’s revolutionary Dream Chaser® Spaceplane, the world’s only orbital commercial spaceplane. Dream Chaser is designed to be a reusable orbital spaceplane, uniquely capable of a smooth 1.5 low-g re-entry and able to land on commercial runways virtually anywhere on Earth.

Dream Chaser is in advanced-stage development under a multi-billion-dollar NASA contract to perform cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station. Dream Chaser has three variants leveraging flexible design and performance versatility to address cargo, crewed or national security space requirements across domestic and international commercial, civil government and defense customer segments.

This investment will also support the development of the company’s Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE™) Habitat, a modular, three-story commercial habitation, business and science platform. Dream Chaser and LIFE Habitat are critical components for Orbital Reef, the visionary new commercial space station that Sierra Space is developing in partnership with Blue Origin.

“We are building the next generation of space transportation systems and in-space infrastructures and destinations that will enable humanity to build and sustain thriving civilizations beyond Earth,” stated Tom Vice, CEO of Sierra Space. “Equally as important, Sierra Space is building the next platform for business. Space provides a unique environment that will enable new breakthroughs in critical areas such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, fiber optics and energy that will directly enhance our life on Earth.”

Bill Ford, Chairman and CEO of General Atlantic, said, “General Atlantic and our fellow co-investors are proud to support Sierra Space in its vision to define the future of the commercial space economy. The company has harnessed advanced technologies and a culture of innovation to develop products that have transformative potential, and that position Sierra Space as an emerging leader in the new space age. We look forward to providing active partnership to Sierra Space and its management team to accelerate its growth and magnify its global impact.”

Fatih Ozmen, Chairman of the Sierra Space Board of Directors and CEO of founding company Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), commented, “We have worked hard for years to nurture the Sierra Space business from its genesis in 2008 to today, where it has significantly grown to hold a very unique and strategic position in the rapidly expanding commercial space sector. Sierra Space now has the right scale, and with its leading-edge technologies and turnkey capabilities is poised to significantly accelerate growth with this investment. Eren and I are excited to welcome this established and experienced team of investors as our new partners at this inflection point for Sierra Space. Together, we have a game-changing strategy and resources that position the company to lead the new space race and seize the growing market in the new space economy.” Fatih and Eren Ozmen own SNC, the majority owner of Sierra Space, and will both serve on the Sierra Space board.

About Sierra Space

Sierra Space products and programs are working towards a more accessible space economy. The company is rapidly advancing toward the launch of the world’s only winged commercial spaceplane, the Dream Chaser. As the next generation of space transportation, the Dream Chaser will perform cargo supply and return missions for NASA, set to begin in late 2022, delivering up to 12,000 pounds of cargo to the International Space Station (ISS) at a time. The return journey will carry critical data, generated by ISS researcher experiments, enabling earth-bound scientists to benefit from much faster access to these unique results. Dream Chaser is a reusable spaceplane, uniquely capable of a smooth 1.5 low-g re-entry for crew and cargo transportation with the ability to land on existing commercial runways worldwide.

Sierra Space is the developer of the Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFETM) Habitat, a modular, three-story commercial habitation and science platform. The unique structure will provide opportunities for multiple businesses including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and other sectors, to optimize zero gravity benefits. The LIFE habitat will be able to be deployed in low-Earth orbit, on the lunar surface, or lunar orbit, and as a transport vehicle to Mars. Both Dream Chaser and LIFE habitat will launch using conventional rocket propulsion systems.

The Dream Chaser spaceplane and LIFE platform are central components of the joint partnership Orbital Reef commercial space station and mixed-use business park being developed in partnership with Blue Origin.

About General Atlantic

General Atlantic is a leading global growth equity firm with more than four decades of experience providing capital and strategic support for over 445 growth companies throughout its history. Established in 1980 to partner with visionary entrepreneurs and deliver lasting impact, the firm combines a collaborative global approach, sector specific expertise, a long-term investment horizon and a deep understanding of growth drivers to partner with great entrepreneurs and management teams to scale innovative businesses around the world. General Atlantic currently has over $78 billion in assets under management inclusive of all products as of June 30, 2021, and more than 215 investment professionals based in New York, Amsterdam, Beijing, Hong Kong, Jakarta, London, Mexico City, Mumbai, Munich, Palo Alto, São Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore and Stamford. For more information on General Atlantic, please visit the website: www.generalatlantic.com

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Mary Armstrong & Emily Japlon
General Atlantic media@generalatlantic.com

Kimberly Schwandt
Sierra Space 720-407-3223 kimberly.schwandt@sncorp.com

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Sierra Space Secures Record $1.4 Billion Series A Growth Investment and Achieves $4.5 Billion Valuation

Investment led by General Atlantic, Coatue and Moore Strategic Ventures, with participation from funds and accounts managed by BlackRock Private Equity Partners and AE Industrial Partners

• Sierra Space secures $1.4 billion Series A capital raise; represents largest aerospace and defense capital raise globally in 2021, second-largest private capital raise globally in the aerospace and defense sector ever
• Growth capital accelerates the realization of Sierra Space’s vision of enabling humanity to build civilizations in space, while enhancing life on Earth
• Sierra Space is building the first commercial business platform in space; investment accelerates development of the company’s revolutionary Dream Chaser Spaceplane and expandable LIFE Commercial Space Station
• Dream Chaser Spaceplane, a family of vehicles for cargo, crew and national security applications, is in advanced stage of development and production and is under a multi-billion-dollar contract with NASA to perform cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station starting late next year
• Sierra Space is uniquely positioned to drive and capitalize on rapidly expanding low Earth orbit (LEO) economy via its differentiated and technologically advanced products

November 19, 2021

Sierra Space, a leading commercial space company with 1,100 employees, more than 500 missions and over 30 years of space flight heritage, announced today a $1.4 billion Series A investment of primary capital, the first capital raise for the company and the second-largest private capital raise globally in the aerospace and defense sector ever.

Sierra Space aims to build the future of space transportation, commercial space destinations and infrastructure, and enabling technologies that will help to build a vibrant, growing commercial space economy. As the LEO economy reaches a critical inflection point – driven by the convergence of the increasing commercialization of space, renewed public interest and defense considerations – Sierra Space is developing foundational infrastructure to support this growing ecosystem. By opening up affordable access to space, Sierra Space hopes to enable existing businesses, entrepreneurs, researchers and governments to create exciting breakthroughs that can empower humanity to begin new civilizations in space and benefit life on Earth.

The round is led by General Atlantic, Coatue and Moore Strategic Ventures, with participation from funds and accounts managed by BlackRock Private Equity Partners, AE Industrial Partners, and various strategic family offices. The funding will accelerate the development of the company’s revolutionary Dream Chaser® Spaceplane, the world’s only orbital commercial spaceplane. Dream Chaser is designed to be a reusable orbital spaceplane, uniquely capable of a smooth 1.5 low-g re-entry and able to land on commercial runways virtually anywhere on Earth.

Dream Chaser is in advanced-stage development under a multi-billion-dollar NASA contract to perform cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station. Dream Chaser has three variants leveraging flexible design and performance versatility to address cargo, crewed or national security space requirements across domestic and international commercial, civil government and defense customer segments.

This investment will also support the development of the company’s Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE™) Habitat, a modular, three-story commercial habitation, business and science platform. Dream Chaser and LIFE Habitat are critical components for Orbital Reef, the visionary new commercial space station that Sierra Space is developing in partnership with Blue Origin.

“We are building the next generation of space transportation systems and in-space infrastructures and destinations that will enable humanity to build and sustain thriving civilizations beyond Earth,” stated Tom Vice, CEO of Sierra Space. “Equally as important, Sierra Space is building the next platform for business. Space provides a unique environment that will enable new breakthroughs in critical areas such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, fiber optics and energy that will directly enhance our life on Earth.”

Bill Ford, Chairman and CEO of General Atlantic, said, “General Atlantic and our fellow co-investors are proud to support Sierra Space in its vision to define the future of the commercial space economy. The company has harnessed advanced technologies and a culture of innovation to develop products that have transformative potential, and that position Sierra Space as an emerging leader in the new space age. We look forward to providing active partnership to Sierra Space and its management team to accelerate its growth and magnify its global impact.”

Fatih Ozmen, Chairman of the Sierra Space Board of Directors and CEO of founding company Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), commented, “We have worked hard for years to nurture the Sierra Space business from its genesis in 2008 to today, where it has significantly grown to hold a very unique and strategic position in the rapidly expanding commercial space sector. Sierra Space now has the right scale, and with its leading-edge technologies and turnkey capabilities is poised to significantly accelerate growth with this investment. Eren and I are excited to welcome this established and experienced team of investors as our new partners at this inflection point for Sierra Space. Together, we have a game-changing strategy and resources that position the company to lead the new space race and seize the growing market in the new space economy.” Fatih and Eren Ozmen own SNC, the majority owner of Sierra Space, and will both serve on the Sierra Space board.

About Sierra Space

Sierra Space products and programs are working towards a more accessible space economy. The company is rapidly advancing toward the launch of the world’s only winged commercial spaceplane, the Dream Chaser. As the next generation of space transportation, the Dream Chaser will perform cargo supply and return missions for NASA, set to begin in late 2022, delivering up to 12,000 pounds of cargo to the International Space Station (ISS) at a time. The return journey will carry critical data, generated by ISS researcher experiments, enabling earth-bound scientists to benefit from much faster access to these unique results. Dream Chaser is a reusable spaceplane, uniquely capable of a smooth 1.5 low-g re-entry for crew and cargo transportation with the ability to land on existing commercial runways worldwide.

Sierra Space is the developer of the Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFETM) Habitat, a modular, three-story commercial habitation and science platform. The unique structure will provide opportunities for multiple businesses including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and other sectors, to optimize zero gravity benefits. The LIFE habitat will be able to be deployed in low-Earth orbit, on the lunar surface, or lunar orbit, and as a transport vehicle to Mars. Both Dream Chaser and LIFE habitat will launch using conventional rocket propulsion systems.

The Dream Chaser spaceplane and LIFE platform are central components of the joint partnership Orbital Reef commercial space station and mixed-use business park being developed in partnership with Blue Origin.

About General Atlantic

General Atlantic is a leading global growth equity firm with more than four decades of experience providing capital and strategic support for over 445 growth companies throughout its history. Established in 1980 to partner with visionary entrepreneurs and deliver lasting impact, the firm combines a collaborative global approach, sector specific expertise, a long-term investment horizon and a deep understanding of growth drivers to partner with great entrepreneurs and management teams to scale innovative businesses around the world. General Atlantic currently has over $78 billion in assets under management inclusive of all products as of June 30, 2021, and more than 215 investment professionals based in New York, Amsterdam, Beijing, Hong Kong, Jakarta, London, Mexico City, Mumbai, Munich, Palo Alto, São Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore and Stamford. For more information on General Atlantic, please visit the website: www.generalatlantic.com

MEDIA KIT:

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Media Contacts

Mary Armstrong & Emily Japlon
General Atlantic media@generalatlantic.com

Kimberly Schwandt
Sierra Space 720-407-3223 kimberly.schwandt@sncorp.com

Categories: News

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Sierra Space Secures Record $1.4 Billion Series A Growth Investment and Achieves $4.5 Billion Valuation

Ae Industrial Partners

Sierra Space Secures Record $1.4 Billion Series A Growth Investment and Achieves $4.5 Billion Valuation

Investment led by General Atlantic, Coatue and Moore Strategic Ventures, with participation from funds and accounts managed by BlackRock Private Equity Partners and AE Industrial Partners

  • Sierra Space secures $1.4 billion Series A capital raise; represents largest aerospace and defense capital raise globally in 2021, second-largest private capital raise globally in the aerospace and defense sector ever
  • Growth capital accelerates the realization of Sierra Space’s vision of enabling humanity to build civilizations in space, while enhancing life on Earth
  • Sierra Space is building the first commercial business platform in space; investment accelerates development of the company’s revolutionary Dream Chaser® Spaceplane and expandable LIFE Commercial Space Station
  • Dream Chaser Spaceplane, a family of vehicles for cargo, crew and national security applications, is in advanced stage of development and production and is under a multibillion-dollar contract with NASA to perform cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station starting late next year
  • Sierra Space is uniquely positioned to drive and capitalize on rapidly expanding low-Earth orbit (LEO) economy via its differentiated and technologically advanced products

November 19, 2021– LOUISVILLE, Colo.— Sierra Space, a leading commercial space company with 1,100 employees, more than 500 missions and over 30 years of space flight heritage, announced today a $1.4 billion Series A investment of primary capital, the first capital raise for the company and the second-largest private capital raise globally in the aerospace and defense sector ever.

Sierra Space aims to build the future of space transportation, commercial space destinations and infrastructure, and enabling technologies that will help to build a vibrant, growing commercial space economy. As the LEO economy reaches a critical inflection point – driven by the convergence of the increasing commercialization of space, renewed public interest and defense considerations – Sierra Space is developing foundational infrastructure to support this growing ecosystem. By opening up affordable access to space, Sierra Space hopes to enable existing businesses, entrepreneurs, researchers and governments to create exciting breakthroughs that can empower humanity to begin new civilizations in space and benefit life on Earth.

Dream Chaser is in advanced-stage development under a multibillion-dollar NASA contract to perform cargo resupply missions to the International Space Station. Dream Chaser has three variants leveraging flexible design and performance versatility to address cargo, crewed or national security space requirements across domestic and international commercial, civil government and defense customer segments.

This investment will also support the development of the company’s Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFE™) Habitat, a modular, three-story commercial habitation, business and science platform. Dream Chaser and LIFE Habitat are critical components for Orbital Reef, the visionary new commercial space station that Sierra Space is developing in partnership with Blue Origin.

“We are building the next generation of space transportation systems and in-space infrastructures and destinations that will enable humanity to build and sustain thriving civilizations beyond Earth,” stated Tom Vice, CEO of Sierra Space. “Equally as important, Sierra Space is building the next platform for business. Space provides a unique environment that will enable new breakthroughs in critical areas such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, fiber optics and energy that will directly enhance our life on Earth.”

Bill Ford, Chairman and CEO of General Atlantic, said, “General Atlantic and our fellow co-investors are proud to support Sierra Space in its vision to define the future of the commercial space economy. The company has harnessed advanced technologies and a culture of innovation to develop products that have transformative potential, and that position Sierra Space as an emerging leader in the new space age. We look forward to providing active partnership to Sierra Space and its management team to accelerate its growth and magnify its global impact.”

Fatih Ozmen, Chairman of the Sierra Space Board of Directors and CEO of founding company Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), commented, “We have worked hard for years to nurture the Sierra Space business from its genesis in 2008 to today, where it has significantly grown to hold a very unique and strategic position in the rapidly expanding commercial space sector. Sierra Space now has the right scale, and with its leading-edge technologies and turnkey capabilities is poised to significantly accelerate growth with this investment. Eren and I are excited to welcome this established and experienced team of investors as our new partners at this inflection point for Sierra Space. Together, we have a game-changing strategy and resources that position the company to lead the new space race and seize the growing market in the new space economy.” Fatih and Eren Ozmen own SNC, the majority owner of Sierra Space, and will both serve on the Sierra Space board.

About Sierra Space

Sierra Space products and programs are working towards a more accessible space economy. The company is rapidly advancing toward the launch of the world’s only winged commercial spaceplane, the Dream Chaser. As the next generation of space transportation, the Dream Chaser will perform cargo supply and return missions for NASA, set to begin in late 2022, delivering up to 12,000 pounds of cargo to the International Space Station (ISS) at a time. The return journey will carry critical data, generated by ISS researcher experiments, enabling earth-bound scientists to benefit from much faster access to these unique results. Dream Chaser is a reusable spaceplane, uniquely capable of a smooth 1.5 low-g re-entry for crew and cargo transportation with the ability to land on existing commercial runways worldwide.

Sierra Space is the developer of the Large Integrated Flexible Environment (LIFETM) Habitat, a modular, three-story commercial habitation and science platform. The unique structure will provide opportunities for multiple businesses including manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and other sectors, to optimize zero gravity benefits. The LIFE Habitat will be able to be deployed in low-Earth orbit, on the lunar surface, or lunar orbit, and as a transport vehicle to Mars. Both Dream Chaser and LIFE Habitat will launch using conventional rocket propulsion systems.

The Dream Chaser Spaceplane and LIFE platform are central components of the joint partnership Orbital Reef commercial space station and mixed-use business park being developed in partnership with Blue Origin.

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Espresso Capital closes $200 million credit facility led by KeyBank

espresso capital

Toronto — November 19, 2021 — Espresso Capital announced today that it has closed a $200 million credit facility from KeyBank, one of the largest bank-based financial services companies in the United States. A leading provider of innovative venture debt solutions, Espresso will use the facility to further expand its lending activities to high-growth technology and healthcare companies.

“We’re excited to welcome KeyBank as a funding partner,” said Espresso Chief Operating Officer and CFO, Enio Lazzer. “Securing this facility is an important milestone that further expands our capacity to support borrowers with innovative venture debt solutions. The KeyBank facility complements Espresso’s existing facilities with BMO Bank of Montreal and Scotiabank.”

Since it was founded in 2009, Espresso has funded more than 300 companies across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Espresso’s financing solutions help companies and their investors accelerate growth, extend runway, and increase strategic flexibility with non-dilutive capital.

“We’re delighted to have Espresso among our growing portfolio of high-quality growth capital lenders,” said Rian Emmett, Group Head, Executive Vice President, Specialty Finance Lending, at KeyBank. “We specialize in providing financing to firms like Espresso and are pleased to be able to help enable their continued growth.”

About Espresso Capital

Espresso empowers companies with innovative venture debt solutions. Since 2009, we’ve helped more than 300 technology companies and their investors accelerate growth, extend runway and increase strategic flexibility with non-dilutive capital. Learn more at espressocapital.com.

 

 

Media contact

Kevin Cain
Head of Marketing, Espresso Capital
kcain@espressocapital.com

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