NEW YORK, Nov. 05, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Firelight Capital Partners (Firelight), a private equity firm dedicated to accelerating the growth of emerging consumer and retail brands, announced it led an investment in Hobo Bags (Hobo). Firelight, led this investment along with its co-investment partner, Satori Capital (Satori), a Texas-based multi-strategy investment firm committed to the principles of conscious capitalism.
Based in Annapolis, Maryland, Hobo designs and produces high-quality, branded leather handbags and accessories in the affordable luxury category, offering an array of stylish and “timelessly cool” leather products at accessible price points. Hobo distributes its shoulder bags, totes, wallets, belt bags, backpacks, and small leather goods through major department stores and specialty boutique retailers around the world, as well as through e-commerce channels. InStyle magazine described Hobo’s goods as marrying “excellent quality materials with celebrity-approved style.”
“Hobo’s authentic, high-quality leather goods perfectly embody the company’s design philosophy: beauty, soul, and purpose.” said Rick Perkal, CEO and Managing Partner of Firelight, which led this investment. “Hobo’s loyal customers already know and love its beautiful and long-lasting products. We believe a broader market and demographic will soon discover their new favorite handbag or wallet at Hobo.”
“Hobo’s team is committed to authentic design and collaboration with a passion for expanding the base of customers who love its products,” said Pat Collins, Managing Partner, Firelight. “We expect Hobo to attract a range of outstanding talent to accelerate the company’s growth.”
Hobo was founded in 1991 by David Brewer, Koren Ray and her mother, Toni Ray. David and Koren took over leadership of the brand in 2006. As Chief Visionary Officer, Koren is responsible for brand strategy, product design and promotion, as well as merchandising. She recently received the Iconoclast Award for her designs at the Independent Handbag Designer Awards. As CEO, David heads corporate strategy and oversees operations, including supply chain management and sourcing. Both are committed to superior product quality with an emphasis on authentic, timeless designs.
“We are thrilled with the capabilities that Firelight and Satori will bring to Hobo,” said Koren. “Their experience and knowledge in marketing and operations is critical as we look to increase market share and grow brand awareness. With the goal of enhancing systems and developing an integrated experience for our retail network and consumers, we couldn’t ask for better partners.”
About Firelight Capital Partners
Firelight Capital Partners is a private equity firm dedicated to unlocking and accelerating the growth and cultural resonance of exceptional emerging consumer and retail brands. Firelight is a partnership between established private equity investors and the founders of YARD, a New York-based consumer-focused brand and marketing strategy agency. For more information, visit www.firelightcapital.com
About Hobo
Established in Annapolis, Maryland, in 1991, Hobo’s origins are rooted in the craft of leather and an enduring commitment to create high-quality branded leather accessories at accessible price points. Today Hobo thrives as a second generation, family-operated brand. Koren Ray and her husband-partner, David Brewer, stay true to their passion and enduring design philosophy with timeless designs and flawless functionality, creating bags that appeal to consumers who value individuality, craftsmanship, and authenticity. Visit www.hobobags.com for more information.
About Satori Capital
Satori Capital is a Texas-based multi-strategy investment firm founded upon the principles of conscious capitalism. Satori’s private equity business partners with leadership teams of companies with $5 million to $25 million of EBITDA that operate with a long-term perspective, commit to their mission or purpose, and create value for all stakeholders. Companies interested in additional information should visit www.satoricapital.com.
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