Riverside Company Buys Kyjen

The Riverside Company has acquired Kyjen Co. Financial terms weren’t announced. Centennial, Colo.-based Kyjen designs and distributes branded dog toys such as Plush Puppies, Invincibles, Outward Hound and Dog Games. Deerpath provided the financing for the deal.

PRESS RELEASE

The Riverside Company was happy to have its portfolio go to the dogs for just one day, as it acquired Kyjen Company, a designer and distributor of branded dog toys based in Centennial, Colorado. Kyjen’s products are differentiated by their focus on promoting mental and physical wellbeing of dogs by encouraging problem solving, mental stimulation and engagement with humans.
“Kyjen provides a lot more than simple dog toys and accessories,” said Riverside Managing Partner Loren Schlachet. “Their products create fun and interactive experiences that enrich dogs’ lives. We see tremendous upside in this innovative company.”
Kyjen sells its Plush Puppies, Invincibles, Outward Hound and Dog Games products through more than 100 distributors and 1,100 retailers. Kyjen’s products range from high-quality interactive dog toys to outdoor and travel gear for dogs.
“As people become more aware of their dogs’ needs for stimulating play, pet accessories are a growing industry, and Kyjen is poised to be able to meet those increasing demands,” said Riverside Partner Joe Lee. “They are outstanding at developing new products and uncovering unmet needs, and we look forward to helping them continue to innovate.”
Riverside will work to increase Kyjen’s market penetration, continuing to strengthen the company’s history of strong product innovation and supporting the sales and marketing functions.
“Kyjen has earned an excellent reputation with its customers, and we’re excited about building on the company’s very strong foundation to drive growth,” said Lee.
Assistant Vice President Stephen Rice, Associate Danielle Leimbach and Operating Partner Jeff Goodman worked with Schlachet and Lee on the transaction for Riverside. Centralized CFO Dan Stankey served as Finance Director on the deal. Regional Director, Origination Jeremy Holland originated the deal for Riverside and Vice President Dan Haynes worked on financing the transaction for the firm.
Deerpath provided the financing, Jones Day advised, and West Monroe provided IT and operational diligence for Riverside on the transaction.
The Riverside Company
The Riverside Company is a global private equity firm focused on acquiring growing businesses valued at up to $250 million (€200 million in Europe). Since its founding in 1988, Riverside has invested in more than 310 transactions. The firm’s international portfolio includes more than 70 companies.