"A country store for the artistic, academic and intellectual community"

Ridge Hill Partners is representing Bob Slate, Stationer, as it seeks new ownership.

Ridge Hill Partners is pleased to announce our representation of another legacy retailer in Cambridge - the world-renowned Bob Slate, Stationer.

Bob Slate, Stationer operates 3 stores in Cambridge, Massachusetts - two in Harvard Square and one in Porter Square. The stores are fully staffed with experienced management, making this an ideal opportunity for an executive to work "on" the business, not "in" the business. A significant commercial real estate property is included in the offering.

The owners, second generation Slate brothers Justin and Mallory, are looking forward to retirement and seek a buyer who can both respect the history of the chain and bring it forward into the internet age. We look forward to helping the Slates achieve this goal.

Read further for more detailed information about Bob Slate, Stationer and this offering.

About Bob Slate, Stationer

Seventy-five years ago Robert Slate began selling paper and pencils at 8 Holyoke Street in Harvard Square as Bob Slate, Stationer. He persevered, survived the Depression, nurtured his shop through the 1940's, thrived in the 50's and seamlessly transitioned responsibility to his sons Justin and Mallory in the 60's.

Under the Slate Brothers' leadership, Bob Slate's has become one of the preeminent - and most unique - stationery stores in the country and a "destination" as one of the centerpiece contributors to the special ambiance that is Harvard Square. In fact, the term "stationery store" does not do Bob Slate's justice. It is in reality a "country store for the artistic, academic and intellectual community". As noted by one recent visitor, "the variety is mind boggling, but the quality even more so".

In a recent Harvard University survey, Bob Slate's was recognized as the fourth most popular shop to visit in Harvard Square. There has been continued recognition in Boston Magazine's Best of Boston Awards. In 2009, Bob Slate's received the award as the best Resource for Grownup School Supplies!

Bob Slate, Stationer operates three stores, two in Harvard Square (1288 Mass Ave. and 63 Church St.) and one in Porter Square (1975 Mass Ave).

Appropriate Buyers

What is the profile of a likely buyer for Bob Slate, Stationer? This opportunity will appeal to experienced executives who seek a strategic position requiring multi-disciplinary skills. There is opportunity in developing marketing programs, managing the finances, developing a strong e-commerce business, in expansion of locations and managing the personnel. In short, a CEO/CFO/COO/CIO all rolled into one!

Unlike most retail opportunities of this size, the presence of multiple stores within the Bob Slate chain indicates strong in-store management. Many of these valued employees have been with the Company for decades. The next owner will be able to "stay above the fray" and concentrate on long-term, strategic vision rather than day-to-day minutia.

With a significant commercial building included, housing not just one of the Bob Slate stores but three other retail units and a small warehouse, the next owner will also be a landlord and perhaps even a developer. A well-rounded individual or team should enjoy much future success while maintaining the legacy of Bob Slate, Stationer.

It is also possible that Bob Slate will be acquired by an expanding retail chain that offers access to management talent in the above mentioned areas and understands the value of the Bob Slate name and legacy.

For More Information
If you would like to learn more about this exciting offering, feel free to call or e-mail the Principals at Ridge Hill Partners.

Click here to e-mail Walter Huskins or call him at (617) 965-6177.