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Representative Transactions

We Graybeards are committed to a hands-on approach in every transaction we undertake. Our extensive experience as operating principals has equipped us with valuable insights into what drives success in investments. We believe in rolling up our sleeves and putting in the hard work necessary to achieve our goals. This dedication allows us to identify potential pitfalls and navigate challenges effectively.

Acquisitions

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  • MTG (add details)

  • Ronco Housewares-Nusbaum was recruited and retained by Marlin Equity to rehabilitate Ronco, an iconic 50-year old housewares/small electrics multi-channel manufacturing and distribution Company.  In June 2007 Nusbaum managed the business onsite purchasing through a 363 bankruptcy sale with a run rate of $37MM, ($5MM) EBITDA loss. Within 6 months the company was profitable largely through Nusbaum's “hands-on standard variable cost model implementation”, generating $1.6MM EBITDA on $8MM in sales. This included restructuring the SG&A, replacing the CRM and ERP systems, consolidating and focusing on the core brands, rationalization of the SKUs, and improved sourcing (COGs) margins.  Nusbaum later executed an MBO (Management Buyout) within 9 months In partnership with Apex Capital and the lender, Laurus Funds delivering a 220% IRR to the original PE sponsor. Nusbaum moved the Company and key personnel to New York. In 2010, Ronco earned the Small Business of the Year Award and Nusbaum was named the Turnaround Executive of the Year, 2010.  Ronco was formally sold to a strategic in 2012.

  • Small World Toys-In 2009, the Company was failing and losing ($2MM) on $30MM in revenues, and Nusbaum replaced the existing CEO to restructure the Company and rationalize the business.  Key steps included an overhaul of the business model (mom & pop targets), finance department, and product assortment, sourcing pipeline along with lowering SG&A.  Within 6 months, Nusbaum instituted his “standard variable cost” business model and leveraged a new independent sales rep network to maximize the core SKUs and minimize the risk exposure. The business reached EBITDA profitability within 6 months and was sold to a strategic for 4X, and repaying the $15MM loan to the secured lender.

  • Fitz & Floyd/Ralph Lauren Table Top--In 2009, Nusbaum, as Operating Partner restructured the business model in partnership with the original CEO/CFO to rationalize down to profitability from $40MM (-$2MM) to $30MM , +$1.5MM EBITDA over an 18-month period. This included relocating the Company to NJ from Dallas, TX, downsizing certain personnel-lowering SG&A by 25%, and replacing the non-performing lender Bank of American with Wells Fargo Business Credit.  The Company was sold to a strategic acquiror at a 5X EBITDA multiple within 3.5 years of the original acquisition.

Turnarounds/Operating Roles

  • Work 'n Gear  (Retail/Ecommerce)  President/CRO. Retained by the founder, and the bank debt provider, Eastern Bank to turnaround a 25-year old, $50MM retail and ecommerce workwear apparel Company located in New England. Successfully executed a 16-month restructuring plan, including transitioning out the failing management team, renegotiating the landlord leases to market value, lowering the vendor debt while operating the business through a successful bank exit to a new lender. Finally, lead and executed the sale of assets to a leading Family Office Fund.

  • Zerofoxtrot.com (Ecommerce D2C Business)-ConsultantRetained by the private equity group to consult with the CEO/CMO and build the business model to expand the business platform while improving the metrics including top and bottom line performance (Ebitda).

  • Rustic Crust (food) CEO, CRO-Brought in by Private Equity owner to restructure frozen pizza manufacturer/distributor to big box retail and bulk end users and avoid bankruptcy. Closed unprofitable branded business and reorganized around private label business particularly Wal-Mart business which was doubled within 3 months. Private Equity firm decided to sell business via an ABC process.

  • Globein.com (Ecommerce Artisan/Home Decor D2C Venture Capital Business)  Role - COO/CMOSuccessfully worked with the lead investor/founder to restructure a community based global sourcing and distribution business. Successfully navigated the business over an 18-month period to an acquisition by an industry leader, Novica.com.

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