Northbrook-based Corporate Imaging Concepts, LLC (CIC), a branded promotional products and marketing firm, announced that Berkley Capital, LLC is its new equity partner. Berkley acquired the equity stake in CIC that was formerly held by Cardinal Equity Partners and Aldine Capital Partners. As co-owners with CIC founders Brian and Patty Abrams, Berkley Capital’s investment will bolster CIC’s aggressive growth strategy, providing greater value to its clients.
“Berkley Capital accelerates our ability to provide clients with world-class technology, products and services as we work toward our strategic plan of realizing $100 million in sales by 2019,” says CIC Founder and CEO Brian Abrams.
Berkley Capital is the private equity investment vehicle of W. R Berkley Corporation, a Fortune 500 property and casualty insurance company. In addition to capital, Berkley brings management expertise to guide CIC as it expands its reach worldwide.
“This is Berkley’s first investment in the promotional products space,” says Abrams. “However, they have a depth of knowledge and vision beyond any I have encountered inside or outside of our industry.
Two of Berkley’s executives will now join Abrams on CIC’s Board of Directors – President Frank Medici and Managing Director Thomas Ghegan. They will actively serve as advisors regarding CIC’s future growth and strategic direction. Abrams will be the Board’s Chair.
“We look forward to partnering with CIC’s management team to build upon the company’s strong foundation and ensure it has the resources to capitalize on opportunities going forward,” says Berkley Capital President Frank Medici. “By supporting CIC’s continued growth, we’ll enable the company to remain indepedent
as it reaches new heights.”
Adds Berkley Managing Director Thomas Ghegan, “Brian and the rest of CIC’s senior management team have the talent, skills and vision to drive innovation in the industry. We are excited to work with this growth-oriented company which is committed to providing continuous improvement and exceptional value to its
clients.”
About Corporate Imaging Concepts, LLC
Founded in 1996, Northbrook-based Corporate Imaging Concepts, LLC provides branded promotional products and online company store portals for some of the country’s largest corporations. CIC’s game-changing LEIF™ technology solution links customers directly to world-class suppliers and leads the industry in supply chain efficiencies. The company’s commitment to technology advancements, combined with a workforce dedicated to exceeding customer expectations, has resulted in steady double-digit growth over the past 20 years. CIC has earned recognition as a sales leader as well as one of the best places to work in the advertising specialty industry. For more information: www.corp-imaging.com