PE-Backed I-deal Optics Completes Acquisition

Budget eyewear maker i-deal Optics, which is backed by private equity firm Hadley Capital, will acquire Missouri-based regional eyewear distributor A&E Inc. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. I-deal Optics is based in Michigan.

PRESS RELEASE:
I-deal Optics is pleased to announce the acquisition of A&E Inc. A&E is a regional eyewear distributor based in Missouri. I-deal Optics is a leading manufacturer of budget eyewear and sunwear based in Michigan. The acquisition expands i-deal’s direct sales force in the “Heart of America.”

“The acquisition of A&E has been a real positive for us and is benefitting A&E’s customers. They’re getting a larger selection at lower cost,” said Michael Feldman, President of i-deal Optics.

Founded in 2002, A&E is a distributor of budget eyewear including i-deal’s Haggar TM and Peace Eyewear TM brands. A&E’s founder, Eric Steuve, has joined i-deal as Regional Sales Manager and will continue to call on his loyal customers who he’s been serving for more than 22 years. “I-deal has the best budget eyewear and customer service in the business and I’m excited to be a member of the team,” said Steuve.

About i-deal Optics
I-deal Optics is a leading manufacturer and distributor of quality budget eyewear and sunwear. I-deal’s in-house brands include Casino, Jelly Bean, Reflections, and Sun-Trends, each offing current styles at a budget price. The company services optometrists, managed care providers, buying groups and optical chains across North America. For more information, please visit www.i-dealoptics.com.

About Hadley Capital
Hadley Capital is a leading small company private equity firm focused exclusively on buying smaller companies. Hadley Capital works with owners and families seeking liquidity or generational transition as well as corporations evaluating spin-offs or divestitures of small operating entities. In partnership with management, Hadley Capital pursues a long-term strategy focused on generating profitable growth. For more information, see www.hadleycapital.com.