Ian Schaffer begins tenure as CEO effective immediately
Thrive International, Inc. has announced its acquisition of the LÍLLÉbaby brand, the award-winning baby brand that designs carriers known for their excellent function and comfort. Ian Schaffer, a 40+-year industry veteran will take over as Chief Executive Officer immediately, using his experience in the juvenile industry to expand the LÍLLÉbaby’s reach domestically and internationally, while continuing to further develop and evolve its product lines.
LÍLLÉbaby joins an impressive family of lifestyle baby brands, Moby Wrap and Petunia Pickle Bottom, both of which have realized significant growth under Schaffer’s strategic leadership since being acquired in 2019.
Says Schaffer, “We are excited to welcome the LÍLLÉbaby brand as the latest addition to our growing brand lineup. LÍLLÉbaby’s innovative products will bolster Thrive’s continued growth, as key personnel of LÍLLÉbaby will be joining Thrive’s best-in-class management team. Thrive International is an energetic and growing company with dynamic brands that enable us to achieve multi-channel global business across stores and e-commerce. Through strategic expansions, we’ve also been able to secure a large and loyal consumer base, which, together with our strong commitment to innovation, will drive Thrive’s further expansion around the globe.”
The LÍLLÉbaby operational structure will fold into the current Thrive International Inc.’s structure, while its products will continue to be sold through major retailers and specialty stores, as well as online. Current CEO Jeff Colton will remain as a Consultant during the integration period.
“We’re thrilled to be writing LÍLLÉbaby’s next chapter under Thrive International’s ownership”, said Jeff Colton, current CEO of LÍLLÉbaby. “Our product selection, avid consumer base, and skilled employees combined with their great portfolio of brands and team, solidifies Thrive as a significant player in the juvenile products market with a true omni-channel approach. Thrive’s commitment to innovation and creativity will drive the LÍLLÉbaby brand to new heights, while fostering the amazing LILLE-community of parents, followers, and brand advocates that are so passionate about LÍLLÉbaby and its products. Joining Thrive bolsters our ability to broaden our product range and allows us to continue to make parents’ lives better by pushing the limits in the design and production of the world’s most comfortable, functional, and stylish child carriers.”
