Carlsquare advised the founder of Pinolino Kinderträume in raising new capital from Executive Equity Partners (EEP)

Carlsquare advised the founding shareholder of Pinolino Kinderträume, a German e-commerce brand for baby and kids’ furniture and accessories, in raising new capital from private equity sponsor Executive Equity Partners (EEP).  This transaction marks a significant step for Pinolino in building resilience in a challenging market environment and creating new momentum for sustainable growth leveraging EEP’s industry know-how and capabilities for successful operational transformation. Going forward, Dr. Martin Funcke remains with the company as shareholder and in an advisory function whereas Daniel Barth will assume the role as CEO.

Founded 1997 by Dr. Martin Funcke, Pinolino has established itself on the German market as a renowned developer and distributor of high-quality wooden furniture, toys, and accessories for children. Pinolino employs around 40 people at its headquarters in Münster, sourcing its products internationally in collaboration with certified partners. Pinolino sells its products mainly through retail specialists such as Amazon, Otto Group and Baby Walz as well as via its own online shop. The product range comprises more than 500 items, most of which are made from sustainable materials such as solid wood. In doing so Pinolino responds to the growing awareness of child safety and comfort and addresses the increasing importance of sustainability and ecological materials.

Executive Equity Partners (EEP) is an independent Munich-based private equity boutique investing in mid-sized companies across sectors in the DACH region. EEP focuses on businesses undergoing demanding transformation processes with clear, sustainable growth potential. In addition to providing capital, EEP contributes deep expertise in restructuring and operational performance improvement. Through its collaboration with an exclusive network of seasoned interim managers, EEP is able to stabilize portfolio companies and deliver sustainable value creation.

“Our products are designed to appeal to quality- and sustainability-minded customers. This allows a brand like Pinolino to remain compelling even amid cost pressure and restrained consumer sentiment. Nevertheless, there are areas in which we can and must continue to improve. In EEP and Daniel Barth we have found the right partner, who offer the expertise and hands-on approach needed to strengthen our online presence and optimize efficiency.”  – Dr. Martin Funcke, Founder, Pinolino Kinderträume GmbH

“Together as shareholders and with our committed employees, we will combine deep industry expertise with pragmatic action to achieve sustainable results. For Pinolino this means optimizing processes, seizing new market opportunities, and paving the way for long-term sustainable growth.” – Daniel Barth, EIP Partner and Co-investor

“Pinolino is a heritage brand known for premium products, strong market presence, and excellent brand recognition. We look forward to leveraging targeted transformation initiatives to strengthen its position and achieve sustainable growth.” – Peter Blumenwitz and Michael Hessing, Founding Partners, EEP

Carlsquare acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Pinolino Kinderträume GmbH.

Pinolino Kinderträume

Executive Equity Partners