New Jersey-based soccer specialty retailer Soccer Post has been acquired by its management team, led by CEO Blake Sonnek-Schmelz. The group acquired a majority stake in Soccer Post from TZP Group with the financial backing of York Capital Management’s private equity group and soccer-specific strategic investors.
Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Founded in 1979 and headquartered in Eatontown, NJ, Soccer Post is said to be the largest local-market-focused omni-channel soccer specialty retailer with over 60 store locations nationwide.
“At Soccer Post, we are proud to have created the largest community-focused soccer specialty company in the United States. We see tremendous opportunity to continue expanding our presence to serve more amazing soccer communities. In partnering with York Private Equity, we are excited to continue to elevate our best-in-class model and bring our authentic retail experience to communities across the country,” commented Sonnek-Schmelz.
“This is a momentous milestone with a significant number of members of management investing alongside Blake to acquire the company. We are incredibly proud of the growth we have achieved together as a team, and we are even more excited about our future. Soccer means so much to local communities and we look forward to working closely with our partners to continue supporting the sport in our local communities throughout the United States,” said Sarah Jett, COO of Soccer Post.
“TZP has thoroughly enjoyed working with the Soccer Post management team to meaningfully grow the company through both organic growth and complementary add-on acquisitions to extend the company’s geographic presence. Blake and team have been fantastic partners and we are excited to see them continue to build on their track record of success,” added Rodney Eshelman, partner, TZP Group.
“Alignment of interest is integral to our approach at York Private Equity, and this is a unique situation to partner with Blake and the team in their acquisition of the company. Soccer Post has developed a highly differentiated and proven business model centered on its deep commitment to its customers, partners, and employees, and we look forward to supporting the company’s continued growth,” said Robbie Shapiro, managing director of York Private Equity.
Soccer Post offers a curated selection of soccer apparel, footwear, and gear to local clubs, organizations, enthusiasts, athletes, and families through its network of local stores and its e-commerce platform. Soccer Post partners with local, regional and national soccer organizations through its team uniform business.
Intrepid served as financial advisor. Winston & Strawn LLP and Pierce Atwood LLP served as legal advisors to the company. Paul Hastings LLP served as legal counsel to York Private Equity.
Image courtesy Soccer Post
