London, 27 September 2018. Apera, a pan-European mid-market private debt investor, today announces that it has provided the financing for Weinberg Capital Partners and Groupe Philippe Ginestet’s (“GPG”) acquisition of Besson Chaussures (“Besson”), a French footwear retailer from Vivarte Group (“Vivarte”) for an undisclosed amount, alongside CM-CIC Private Debt and Idinvest Partners.
Besson, a subsidiary of Vivarte since 1998, operates through a network of 133 physical stores and has recently launched an online sales website. Based in Aubière, the company generated total sales of €264 million in 2016/17.
Apera, CM-CIC Private Debt and Idinvest Partners provided the financing, comprising a bespoke unitranche facility to support Besson’s further development.
Klaus Petersen, Partner at Apera, said: “Besson is a strong French brand, with an established presence in key locations across France and an experienced management team. We are delighted to back new owners Weinberg Capital Partners and Groupe Philippe Ginestet, and provide long-term financing to support Besson in its next phase of growth.”
About Apera
Apera is a pan-European mid-market private debt investor operating in the DACH region, the UK, the Nordic region, France and Benelux. The firm develops long-term partnerships with private equity investors, SME borrowers, and advisors by providing tailored financial solutions that meet both the operational needs and growth objectives of clients, whilst producing attractive returns.
Apera Asset Management LLP is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN: 771080).
Apera Asset Management LLP is incorporated in the UK and the registered office is at 33 Cavendish Square, London, W1G 0PW, United Kingdom.
The services of Apera Asset Management LLP are only available to professional clients and eligible counterparties. They are not available to retail clients.
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