Paul Hastings Advises The Kooples on an Investment by LBO France

June 21, 2011

Paris, France (21 June, 2011) Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker LLP, a leading global law firm, has advised The Kooples on the acquisition of a minority stake of 20 per cent of its share capital by LBO France, designed to accelerate its international growth.

Formed in 2008 by Alexandre, Laurent, and Raphael Elicha, The Kooples has been popular in the French and British markets as a result of its innovative design of clothing storage and closet space for couples and its chic and offbeat collections.

During the last three years, The Kooples has experienced steady growth and developed a network of more than 160 retail outlets in France. The brand spread to the U.K. in November 2010 and now has 15 retail outlets. The Kooples expects sales of €100 million and EBITDA ®25 million for 2010/11.

The presence of LBO France as an investor in The Kooples will make it possible to strengthen the company, support its strategy, and take advantage of attractive opportunities that are available to the brand.

Paul Hastings partners Pascal de Moidrey and Edith Boucaya advised The Kooples on corporate issues, and partner Allard de Waal advised on French tax aspects.

Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker is a leading global law firm with offices in Asia, Europe, and the United States. We provide innovative legal solutions to financial institutions and Fortune 500 companies. Please visit www.paulhastings.com for more information.