Consumer Products Acquisitions in 2014

Frontenac Co. has recapitalized Cloud Star Corp., a San Luis Obispo–based maker of natural pet treats, grooming products and pet merchandise. The investment from Frontenac’s recently closed fund will support product development and growth; Olivier Amice was named CEO and advisers on the deal included SDR Ventures and Winston & Strawn LLP.

Palladin Consumer Retail Partners, a Boston-based private equity firm, acquired AEROSOLES, the Edison, New Jersey-based footwear brand, in a majority buyout announced June 9, 2014. Palladin will provide capital and operational support to expand AEROSOLES' retail, wholesale and e-commerce distribution (the company sells in ~30 countries, ~4,000 doors and operates ~120 retail/outlet locations); financing for the deal included debt from Wells Fargo and THL Credit.