Industry: eCommerce Retail
Location: Wichita, Kansas
The DVS Group Role: Buyside Advisory
IFB Solutions (DVS Buyside Client):
IFB Solutions provides opportunities for people who are blind or visually impaired in need of training, employment and services.
This mission influences every aspect of IFB Solutions’ training, employment and services—from customized, state-of-the-art work environments and training programs to employee compensation and benefits. Through programs that serve kids, provide transportation, deliver low-vision resources and more, IFB Solutions identifies and fulfills community needs.
IFB Solutions is a 501-C3 not-for-profit organization. The revenues from the sale of products and services support the employment of people who are blind or visually impaired. Sponsorships, grants and donations from the community fund life-changing training programs and services for adults and children who are blind or visually impaired.
Pinnacle Mercantile (Seller):
Pinnacle Mercantile is an online retailer of various made-in-the-USA products such as plastic spray nozzles and bottles, squeeze bottles for personal care products, condiment bottles, ice bags, galvanized rebar yard stakes, and galvanized yard staples. The company manufactures certain items on-site and provides value-added packaging and assembly for others.
The Deal:
IFB retained DVS to assist with an acquisition that could create jobs for people who are blind while producing profitable revenue from private sector customers. Pinnacle Mercantile met IFB’s criteria in all key areas, with the added benefit of significantly increasing IFB’s standing as a seller on Amazon. IFB anticipates the addition of as many as 10 full time jobs prior to any growth in sales or addition of new product lines. The seller will remain engaged with IFB for at least the next 18 months post-closing to ensure a comfortable transition as well as to provide new product ideas to accelerate the growth of the Pinnacle Mercantile brand.