Ep 456 The Hidden Risk In Selling to Private Equity: A Cautionary Tale From Protein Bar’s Matt Matros' on How to Avoid a 7-Figure Mistake
Aug 23, 2024
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Matt Matros, the founder of Protein Bar, discusses his journey from a single smoothie shop to a $44 million company. He warns entrepreneurs about the hidden risks of rolling equity when selling to private equity, sharing personal insights on maintaining control during expansion. Matt reflects on the emotional challenges of becoming a minority shareholder and the complexities of valuation negotiations. His cautionary tale emphasizes the importance of understanding liquidity preferences and choosing the right partners for sustainable growth.
Matt Matros's entrepreneurial journey demonstrates the importance of adapting to market trends, transitioning from a single smoothie shop to a successful chain by diversifying the menu.
The experience with private equity highlighted the risks of rolling equity, where relinquishing control may result in frustration and a lack of influence over business decisions.
Matros's transition from CEO underscores the conflict between entrepreneurial passion and the rigid expectations of private equity investors focused on financial performance.
Deep dives
The Journey of Protein Bar
Matt Matros began his entrepreneurial journey by opening a smoothie shop, which evolved into a successful chain known as Protein Bar. Initially starting with a single location in Chicago, he recognized the market's shift away from sugary beverages towards healthier options. As business improved, he expanded to over 30 locations across the country by diversifying the menu to include food items like bowls and sandwiches. This growth was fueled by the rising health and wellness trend, as well as his strategic decision to maintain company ownership instead of franchising.
The Appeal of Private Equity
In 2012, the Protein Bar's rapid expansion attracted attention from private equity firms, particularly after a successful location opened in Washington, D.C. Matros capitalized on the booming market, understanding that the timing was right for a cash infusion to sustain aggressive growth. He ultimately chose El Catterton due to their strong reputation and compatibility with his vision for the company. This decision was influenced by the desire for speed and increased resources to scale the business beyond what could be achieved through organic growth alone.
The Risks of Rolling Equity
After selling a majority stake in Protein Bar while rolling equity into the deal, Matros learned a valuable lesson about liquidity preference in private equity agreements. As a minority shareholder, he was no longer in the driver's seat, leading to frustrations when he encountered issues with the business. The structure of the deal meant that he had to wait for the preferred return to be satisfied before he could see any return on his rolled equity. This experience served as a cautionary tale about the potential downsides of sacrificing control for equity.
The Impact of Private Equity on Operations
Following the acquisition, Matros faced challenges adjusting to his new role, as private equity investors shifted the business's focus from passion-driven entrepreneurship to strict financial performance goals. His previous autonomy was replaced by the expectations of a financial underwriting plan, resulting in heightened pressure to meet precise metrics. Ultimately, Matros was replaced as CEO after struggling to align the company's performance with the private equity's aggressive growth targets. The transition highlighted the tension between operating a business with personal vision and adhering to the rigorous demands of investors.
Lessons Learned and Moving Forward
Reflecting on his journey, Matros acknowledges the importance of understanding the implications of rolling equity and the potential lack of control that can ensue. While he continues to hold shares in Protein Bar, he emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to evaluate their long-term goals and the true cost of outside investment. Now focusing on acquiring and operating other businesses, he embraces a collaborative approach, partnering with operators while stepping back from being the primary decision-maker. This shift represents a growth in understanding the dynamics of entrepreneurship within different investment frameworks.
Matt Matros built Protein Bar from a single smoothie shop into a fast-growing chain. In 2012, private equity firm L Catterton came knocking with a deal valuing his company at $44 million. Matt decided to roll 40% of his equity, expecting it to grow even more.
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