Clerisy Company Profile

Background

Clerisy is a growth equity investment firm specializing in consumer and technology sectors. Co-founded by Lisa Myers and Alexandra Wilkis Wilson, the firm is dedicated to partnering with entrepreneurs who have developed innovative solutions for the evolving consumer landscape and are poised for significant growth.

Key Strategic Focus

Clerisy's strategic focus encompasses:

Whitespace Identification: Identifying untapped opportunities in consumer categories and the technologies that support them.

Trend Analysis: Recognizing and monitoring significant consumer trends to uncover new market opportunities.

Founder Collaboration: Partnering with passionate and tenacious founders who are innovating to meet consumer needs.

Competitive Advantage: Investing in companies with true innovation that leads to a sustainable competitive edge.

Financials and Funding

In 2021, Clerisy launched a $100 million growth equity fund aimed at investing in consumer and technology companies. The firm has made strategic investments in companies such as Dormify, an e-commerce platform specializing in stylish dorm room and home décor.

Portfolio Development

Clerisy's portfolio includes:

Dormify: An e-commerce platform offering stylish dorm room and home décor, catering to Gen Z consumers.

GolfForever: An at-home golf training system that integrates personalized training with tools used by professional players to improve flexibility and core strength. In 2024, GolfForever secured a $10 million Series A funding round led by Clerisy.

CleanCo: A line of low-calorie, non-alcoholic spirit alternatives including Tequila, Gin, Rum, Vodka, and Whiskey.

OLIPOP: A high-fiber, low-sugar, prebiotic soda clinically proven to support digestive and metabolic health.

Sonoro: An entertainment company collaborating with Latino storytellers to develop content for modern Hispanic audiences.

Union: A venue operating system incorporating inventory management, point of sale, loyalty, and data intelligence for high-volume bars and restaurants.

Leadership Team

Lisa Myers: Co-Founder and Managing Partner. Previously served as a partner on the Flagship Buyout Fund at L Catterton and spent 19 years with Franklin Templeton as an EVP and portfolio manager. Holds a BA from the University of Pennsylvania and a JD from Georgetown University Law Center.

Alexandra Wilkis Wilson: Co-Founder and Managing Partner. Co-founded Gilt Groupe and GLAMSQUAD, with extensive experience in strategy, marketing, sales, and operations roles at Allergan, Bulgari, and Louis Vuitton. Holds an AB from Harvard University and an MBA from Harvard Business School.

Susie Harbour: Principal. Brings experience from Bank of America, Putnam Investments, Yellow Wood Partners, Volition Capital, and Stride Consumer Partners.

Zack Shaftal: Principal. Background includes roles at Greenhill & Co., Madison Dearborn Partners, and 3i Group plc, focusing on growth equity and buyout investments across various sectors.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The growth equity investment sector is highly competitive, with numerous firms targeting consumer and technology companies poised for expansion. The market is characterized by rapid technological advancements and evolving consumer preferences, necessitating agile investment strategies.

Competitor Analysis

Clerisy operates in a competitive landscape alongside firms such as L Catterton, known for its consumer-focused private equity investments, and other growth equity firms targeting similar sectors. Clerisy differentiates itself through its hands-on approach, leveraging the extensive operational experience of its leadership team to support portfolio companies.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Clerisy emphasizes collaboration with its portfolio companies, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and access to a broad network of industry contacts. This approach is exemplified in their partnership with Dormify, where Clerisy's investment aims to catalyze category presence and business growth.

Operational Insights

Clerisy's operational strategy involves active engagement with portfolio companies, offering expertise in areas such as market expansion, technology integration, supply chain optimization, and branding strategies. This hands-on approach is designed to drive sustainable, profitable growth and scale.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, Clerisy aims to continue identifying and investing in innovative consumer and technology companies with significant growth potential. The firm plans to leverage its experience and network to support entrepreneurs in scaling their businesses, adapting to market dynamics, and achieving long-term success.