Sun Capital Partners Inc announced that one of its affiliates has acquired Gerber Childrenswear LLC (“GC LLC”). Formerly, a non-core business unit of Kellwood Company ("Kellwood"), GC LLC will operate as a standalone business unit of Childrenswear, LLC (“Childrenswear”), an affiliate of Sun Capital.
GC LLC is a leading marketer of children’s apparel and related products, offered under its flagship licensed brand, Gerber, which includes underwear, sleepwear, playwear, swimwear, bed and bath products, cloth diapers, and bibs. In addition, GC LLC owns the trademark for the Onesies brand one-piece underwear and licenses Jockey Kids (boys and girls – newborn to age 13 for panties, briefs, boxers and t-shirts) and Lamaze (infantswear, bedding and accessories). GC LLC distributes to specialty stores, mass and national chains and enjoys 100% brand awareness in the U.S. for the Gerber brand.
“GC LLC, which licenses the Gerber brand, has been a trusted partner for moms for over 80 years, with strong, long-term relationships in the mass retail market. As a standalone entity, we will be better able to implement operating efficiencies, channel expansion opportunities, and grow our core layette business as well as the Jockey and new Lamaze licenses. Our management team is looking forward to the challenge and to helping parents nurture happy, healthy babies,” stated Gary F. Simmons, President and Chief Executive Officer, Gerber Childrenswear LLC.
Christopher H. Thomas, Vice President, Sun Capital Partners, Inc., added, “We are excited for our affiliate to acquire the leading player in infant and toddler clothing and essentials. This spin-off will allow Gerber Childrenswear to continue to focus on its execution and long-term strategic operating plan.”
GC LLC is a leading marketer of children’s apparel and related products, offered under its flagship licensed brand, Gerber, which includes underwear, sleepwear, playwear, swimwear, bed and bath products, cloth diapers, and bibs. In addition, GC LLC owns the trademark for the Onesies brand one-piece underwear and licenses Jockey Kids (boys and girls – newborn to age 13 for panties, briefs, boxers and t-shirts) and Lamaze (infantswear, bedding and accessories). GC LLC distributes to specialty stores, mass and national chains and enjoys 100% brand awareness in the U.S. for the Gerber brand.
“GC LLC, which licenses the Gerber brand, has been a trusted partner for moms for over 80 years, with strong, long-term relationships in the mass retail market. As a standalone entity, we will be better able to implement operating efficiencies, channel expansion opportunities, and grow our core layette business as well as the Jockey and new Lamaze licenses. Our management team is looking forward to the challenge and to helping parents nurture happy, healthy babies,” stated Gary F. Simmons, President and Chief Executive Officer, Gerber Childrenswear LLC.
Christopher H. Thomas, Vice President, Sun Capital Partners, Inc., added, “We are excited for our affiliate to acquire the leading player in infant and toddler clothing and essentials. This spin-off will allow Gerber Childrenswear to continue to focus on its execution and long-term strategic operating plan.”
