Excelligence’s vision is to become the world’s most preferred provider of educational tools and solutions to early childhood and elementary teachers and parents. This is achieved through a commitment to its mission – to provide teachers and parents with the BEST brands at the BEST prices with the BEST service. Headquartered in Monterey, Calif., Excelligence serves its vision and mission through three main divisions: Supplies, Equipment, and Services.
Dipak Golechha, President & COO, noted, “Growing our presence in the services sector of the early care and education industry is a key strategic priority for Excelligence. We’re delighted to bring an industry leader into the Excelligence family and to the customers that rely on us to deliver the best solutions to meet their needs.”
CCEI is led by CEO Maria Taylor, who will continue to lead the business going forward. Commenting on the transaction, Taylor said, “CCEI is excited to be a part of the Excelligence family. For the past 12 years, CCEI has provided educators with quality professional development and database systems. We look forward to continuing this commitment with a partner who shares our vision of quality and service.”
This continues an active period of acquisitions for Excelligence, having added Really Good Stuff and Children’s Factory to its portfolio of brands in 2016. In December of 2014, Brentwood Associates, a leading consumer-focused private equity investment firm, and its affiliates, acquired a majority stake in Excelligence.
Eric Reiter, a partner at Brentwood Associates, commented, “We look forward to working with Maria and her leadership team to build upon their impressive success and the sterling reputation they have established within the professional development and education market. We expect the resources available within the Excelligence platform will facilitate investments in product development and marketing, allowing CCEI to further grow its base of highly satisfied customers.”
CCEI was advised by Parchman, Vaughan & Company, LLC and represented by Taylor English Duma LLP. Excelligence was advised by Tyton Partners and represented by Burr & Forman LLP and Kirkland & Ellis LLP.
Access the press release here