The Riverside Company, a global private investor focused on the smaller end of the middle market, has invested in Footwear Specialties International (FSI), a designer and virtual manufacturer of branded safety footwear, as an add-on to its portfolio company SureWerx, a leading provider of professional safety products.
Founded in 1996, FSI develops high-quality safety footwear for professional applications across warehousing, manufacturing, construction and utility end markets. It sells its products throughout the US through its e-commerce, distribution and specialty retail partners.
“Combining the product lines of FSI and SureWerx offers a compelling opportunity to expand the safety product offering and distribution channels of both companies,” said Riverside Co-Chief Investment Officer Brad Roberts. “Both companies have a history of product innovation and strong customer service. Culturally and commercially, this partnership is a natural fit.”
FSI is SureWerx’s fifth acquisition since Riverside acquired the platform in 2018. Riverside is actively supporting SureWerx’s efforts to add complementary new products and categories and deliver best-in-class service to its growing, global network of loyal distributors and end-users.
