VIA, Inc.
Sparks, NV
www.viaseating.com

VIA, Inc. is a rapidly growing manufacturer of high quality office seating that has established itself as the “quick ship” pioneer in the contract furniture industry in the United States. In an industry where 4-6 week and longer lead times are the norm, VIA has successfully implemented its “Every chair, every option, every fabric, every leather, ready in 48 hours” strategy while simultaneously establishing itself as a leader in the design of ergonomic seating.

Clearview led a leveraged recapitalization of the company that allowed Thomas Sorensen, the company’s founder, to remain the largest individual shareholder in the recapitalized company. Thomas had a great desire to continue in his role as CEO but wanted an experienced partner to assist in the continued growth of the company. Clearview was able to structure a transaction that also allowed key members of management to acquire significant stakes in the company. VIA’s management expects the company to continue to grow faster than the industry as a whole as the company broadens its base of dealers throughout the United States.

The VIA transaction totaled $27,500,000 and closed on June 1, 2000. Clearview’s relationships with leading senior and subordinated debt lenders in the middle market allowed for a rapid closing on favorable terms. LaSalle Bank provided a senior term loan and revolving credit facility while Canterbury Mezzanine Capital provided subordinated debt. An investment of Clearview Capital Equity Fund I, VIA was sold in 2005.