Stout announced today that its client, Europa Eyewear (“Europa” or the “Company”), has accepted a meaningful investment from Blue Point Capital Partners (“Blue Point”). Blue Point is a Cleveland-based private equity firm focused on partnering with lower middle-market industrial, business services, consumer, and value-added distribution businesses with revenues up to $300 million. Blue Point teamed up with successful eyewear industry veterans Jeff Cole and Holly Rush on the transaction.

Stout served as exclusive financial advisor to Europa in connection with this transaction.

Founded by Alan and Cynthia Shapiro in 1977 and led today by the founders’ son Scott Shapiro, Europa is one of the largest independent eyewear companies in the United States. The Company offers a diverse portfolio of 11 independent eyewear brands that appeal to a wide range of consumers, and the majority of the Company’s brands are designed and owned exclusively by Europa.

“Our team is particularly excited about prospects for the Company’s iconic American Optical brand, known for its aviator models that have been worn by luminaries that date back to its founding in 1833. Blue Point has a tremendous opportunity to help grow the company’s e-commerce business, expand the sunglass offering, increase market share with independent eyecare professionals, and acquire other businesses that can be integrated to increase its international presence and volume in its domestic manufacturing operations,” said John Calcagnini, who led the deal team for Stout.

“Stout ran a broad process that helped us understand the landscape of potential investors, and we eventually identified Blue Point as the ideal partner. They also did an incredible job in preparing marketing materials, managing due diligence streams, and vetting prospective investors and deal terms,” said Scott Shapiro.

Stout’s Eric Froidevaux, Kevin McGah, and Reed Aleck assisted in executing the deal.

HMB Legal Counsel served as legal counsel to Europa. Baker & Hostetler LLP acted as legal counsel to Blue Point.

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