Frontenac Sets the Table; Announces Recapitalization of Wildflower Linen

Napa, CA

Frontenac Company LLC, a Chicago-based private equity firm focused on investing in family and owner-operated businesses, today announced the completion of a recapitalization of Wildflower Linen, a premium provider of designer table linens, chair covers and accessories for special-event rentals. Terms of the private transaction were not disclosed.

Frontenac, who completed a recapitalization of La Tavola Fine Linen Rental in December of 2015, is building a portfolio of like-minded brands focused on servicing the events and lifestyle markets. Jeff Black, CEO of La Tavola will also serve as CEO of Wildflower Linen. He will oversee the two companies separately.

“Both La Tavola and Wildflower have unparalleled reputations in the events industry,” said Black. “I am honored to be appointed CEO of Wildflower Linen and am excited about the future of both brands.”

Youngsong Martin, founder of Wildflower Linen, will stay on as its President and Creative Director to continue the company’s elevation of products and designs for its important clients. “I could not have asked for a better partner than Frontenac, and I think Jeff Black has a great understanding of the industry and our brand,” she added. “This partnership will allow Wildflower Linen to grow as a brand and a business.”

“The event industry is a thriving space filled with growth opportunity,” stated Paul Carbery, a Managing Partner at Frontenac. “We are excited to add another great asset to our portfolio with Wildflower and know that Jeff Black will lead both companies to even more future success.”

Joe Rondinelli, a Vice President at Frontenac added, “Wildflower is known for being one of the premier suppliers of specialty table linens and chair covers in the industry. With both Jeff and Youngsong working together we are confident the brand will reach new heights.”

About Wildflower Linen

Founded in 2001 by fashion designer Youngsong Martin, Wildflower Linen specializes in bringing style and grace to tabletops with special-event rental linen looks ranging from fashion-forward to elegant and understated. Southern California-based Wildflower has cultivated a prestigious clientele of event planners and hosts nationwide and abroad. For more information, please visit http://www.wildflowerlinens.com.

About Frontenac

Frontenac is a leading private equity firm, based in Chicago. The firm focuses on investing in lower middle market buyout transactions in the food, industrial, and services industries. Frontenac works in partnership with proven operating leaders, through our executive-centric approach called CEO1ST, to identify, acquire, and build market leading companies through transformational acquisitions and operational excellence. The firm has built a leading franchise working with over 225 owners of mid-sized businesses, almost always families or founders, as they address complex transition issues of liquidity, management enhancement, and growth planning. For more information, please visit www.frontenac.com.