International law firm Simmons & Simmons has advised Growth Capital Partners (GCP), management shareholders and the other parties on the exit of the Jones Knowles Ritchie (JKR) business, the award winning global branding business, to Breakwater Management, an LA based private equity firm.
JKR, founded in 1990, is a global branding agency specialising in brand consultancy, identity and experience. Its client base includes leading international brands such as Coca Cola, KFC and Heinz. The transaction will support JKR's next phase of growth and its vision to build the branding business of the future, while maintaining its independence.
GCP, a longstanding client, is a UK based private equity firm backing growth businesses and has over 26 years of experience. The firm invests between £15m and £75m of equity funding in businesses valued between £25m and £150m.
The transaction reflects continued private equity interest in leading creative and marketing services platforms with strong international client bases.
The Simmons & Simmons team was jointly led by co-head of international private equity, partner Tim Hewens, and partner Gemma Phillips - with support from managing associate Thomas Mawson.
Commenting on the transaction, Tim Hewens said: "We are pleased to be supporting GCP on the exit of JKR to Breakwater Management. JKR is a standout global branding business with an exceptional client roster and strong growth prospects. This transaction underlines the depth of our private equity capability and our experience advising sponsors on complex cross border deals in the creative and marketing services sector."
