Piper has sold Maximuscle to Darwin Private Equity for £75m, providing Piper with a 10x multiple on its investment in just over three years
Maximuscle is the UKs fastest growing sports nutrition brand used by sports stars such as Josh Lewsey and Gavin Henson. The business was founded in 1995 by sports nutrition expert Zef Eisenberg and has seen rapid growth driven by increasing interest in healthy eating, exercise and looking good. The benefits of its mainly high protein products are being brought to a wider consumer base through its online platform as well as through high street chains such as Argos, Tesco and JJB spots, as well as gyms and specialist sports stores.
Zef Eisenberg, who sold a stake to Piper in 2004, continuing as President, commented, “I would like to thank Piper for their support, 100%commitment, professionalism, focus and attention in helping the business get to where it has and helping me achieve my goals with Maximuscle. I was confident that I chose the right private equity house at the time and I maintain that now”
“Chris Curry, Managing Director of Piper, stated “We are very proud of our involvement with Maximuscle. During the period of our investment sales have trebled and the brand has moved from being a niche player to becoming the brand of choice for those serious about sport”.