Falls River Group, LLC ("Falls River Group") is pleased to announce the sale of Harry Barker, Inc. ("Harry Barker") to Mission Pets, Inc. ("Mission Pets"). Falls River Group acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Harry Barker in connection with the transaction.
Harry Barker engaged Falls River Group to lead a sales process that would maximize value, and, at the same time, identify a new owner with the expertise and resources to continue building upon the brand's legacy. Falls River Group identified and approached a select group of strategic and financial investors, receiving multiple Indications of Interest. Mission Pets was selected as the preferred buyer and the transaction closed on April 27th, 2017, marking Mission Pets' first add-on investment. The acquisition brings sales channel diversification to Mission Pets with the opportunity to further extend Harry Barker's brand awareness and assortment. Carol Perkins, founder of Harry Barker, will continue to lead the brand's product design as Creative Director. The sale of Harry Barker represents Falls River Group's fourth transaction in the pet sector in the last 27 months, a growing industry vertical for the firm.
About Harry Barker
Founded in 1997, Harry Barker is a premium designer and supplier of pet lifestyle products, including beds, bowls, food storage, treats, leads and collars, to over 1,600 stores and online retailers. Harry Barker's focus on innovative designs, high quality materials and a commitment to sustainability, has resulted in a differentiated brand with a high level of consumer awareness and loyalty.
About Mission Pets
Founded in 1999, Mission Pets, formerly SimplyShe, Inc., is a leading designer, importer and distributor of apparel, collars, leads and fashion accessories for pets. Mission Pets markets its high-quality, trend-driven and functional pet lifestyle products to leading pet specialty and mass market retailers. Harren Equity Partners, a middle-market private equity firm, acquired majority interest of Mission Pets in September 2011.