Hanna Andersson is under new ownership.
Sun Capital Partners, Inc., a private investment firm announced Tuesday that one of its affiliates completed the sale of Hanna Andersson, a children’s lifestyle apparel retailer, in a private transaction.
Based in Portland, Oregon, Hanna Anderson is known for its “let kids be kids” clothing that offers cute, high quality garments for babies, boys and girls ages newborn to 12 years.
In 2008, Hanna Anderson left the Kellwood Company to become its own business and after the move, it was able to focus more on channel expansion, growth opportunities and product development throughout retail’s digital transition. While growing its direct-to-consumer business, the retailer more than doubled its store count from 27 to 65.
“We saw tremendous potential for Hanna Andersson to succeed as a standalone business, and our team worked with company management to devise and execute an operationally-focused strategy that transformed that potential into strong results,” said Sun Capital’s co-chief executive officer, Marc Leder. “We’re very pleased at what we have achieved together, and feel that Hanna Andersson is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory under new ownership.”
Throughout the Sun Capital affiliate’s ownership, Hanna Andersson improved sourcing strategies and carried out cost savings initiatives. Hanna Andersson transformed into an omni-channel platform that met consumer demands throughout its direct marketing/catalog, e-commerce and retail channels. The company also changed up its in-store merchandising strategy with a new store design.
“We applied our past experience to ensure the company would have the operational resources, processes, and financial infrastructure required to achieve its growth strategy,” said Sun Capital vice president Jonathan Jackson. “Having this operational plan in place at the outset enabled Hanna Andersson to quickly begin execution and seize its market opportunity.”
Sun Capital’s other popular retail portfolio companies include The Limited Stores, Scotch & Soda and Vince.