A New Chapter Begins: Welcoming KKR to the Varsity Brands Family

Today marks an exciting and significant milestone for Varsity Brands as we officially welcome KKR, a leading global investment firm, as our new owner. This transition represents more than just a change in ownership:  it is a powerful opportunity to build on the momentum we’ve achieved over the past six years with Bain Capital and to solidify our role as a force for good in the lives of students, athletes and communities across the country.

A Legacy of Growth and Commitment

Our journey with Bain Capital has been nothing short of extraordinary. We’ve expanded our reach, strengthened our operations, and enhanced the experiences of countless students, athletes, and communities. Bain’s support has been instrumental in laying the foundation for our continued success. As we embark on this new chapter with KKR, I want to express my sincere gratitude to Bain Capital for their belief in our mission and their role in shaping the Varsity Brands we know today.

Why KKR?

KKR understands and shares our dedication to supporting schools, teams, and communities, and recognizes the importance of safety and security in all that we do. With KKR as our strategic partner, we are not only poised to continue our upward trajectory but also to enhance the ways we serve our customers and communities. This partnership reinforces our commitment to driving meaningful change, ensuring that our efforts positively impact the lives of those we serve.

One of the most exciting aspects of this transition is the opportunity for our employees to become co-owners of Varsity Brands. This program will closely align our interests and allow all of us to share in the company’s future success. I am confident this approach will further strengthen our incredible culture and amplify our commitment to our mission and each other.

Looking Ahead

Our mission—to support schools, teams, and communities—remains at the heart of everything we do. With KKR’s partnership, we are better equipped than ever to pursue growth and innovation while maintaining the high standards and values that have made us a leader in our industry. As we move forward, our focus on safety and security will continue to be paramount. We are committed to ensuring that every event we host, every product we provide, and every service we deliver meets the highest standards, strengthening our positive impact on the lives of the students, athletes and coaches we serve.

A Message to Our Team

To my colleagues across Varsity Brands, I want to say thank you. It is your dedication, hard work, and belief in our mission that have brought us to this moment. I am thrilled to continue this journey with such a talented and committed team. Our best days are undoubtedly ahead of us, and I look forward to all that we will achieve together. Let’s embrace this new chapter with the same passion and spirit that has defined us for decades. The future is bright, the possibilities are endless, and together, we will continue to make a lasting, positive difference.