FORT WAYNE, Indiana – Vera Bradley, Inc. (NASDAQ: VRA; “Vera Bradley” or the “Company”), a leading American bag and luggage company and iconic lifestyle brand, today announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire a 75% interest in Creative Genius, Inc., which also operates under the name Pura Vida Bracelets (“Pura Vida”). Pura Vida, based in La Jolla, California, is a rapidly growing, digitally native, and highly engaging lifestyle brand that deeply resonates with its loyal consumer following. The Pura Vida brand has a differentiated and expanding offering of bracelets, jewelry, and other lifestyle accessories.
Robert Wallstrom, Chief Executive Officer of Vera Bradley, said, “The acquisition of Pura Vida is a terrific fit for Vera Bradley as we move into Year Two of our Vision 20/20 strategic plan and focus on growth. As we pursue ways to increase revenues, grow shareholder value, expand our customer community, and diversify the business, Pura Vida will be a great addition to our portfolio.
“Vera Bradley has grown into a $400+ million lifestyle brand by creating deep customer connections through fun, casual, comfortable, and affordable offerings. Likewise, Pura Vida has grown into a distinctive brand and market leader in the jewelry and accessories markets.”
Wallstrom continued, “Pura Vida is a highly differentiated lifestyle brand with uniquely strong products and amazing consumer loyalty. The brand resonates with individuals worldwide, creating a community of fun-loving, socially conscious, and stylish advocates, reflecting its potential to become a full-fledged lifestyle brand. We are thrilled to partner with founders Griffin Thall and Paul Goodman to help guide the brand to new heights.
“We have many similarities in our value-based cultures, in our authentic brands, and in our devoted customer bases and emotional customer connections. We will provide each other invaluable support as we grow our brands together. Vera Bradley will be able to leverage Pura Vida’s expertise around digital marketing and social customer engagement, and Pura Vida will be able to leverage our product.
The Sage Group served as exclusive financial advisor to Pura Vida.