After starting as a catalog
company in 1998, Soft Surroundings has grown rapidly, with sales surging about
30 percent last year to about $150 million, according to the company.
Last year, it doubled its number
of stores to 10 nationwide. It also launched Retreat, a French-inspired
furniture line with its own catalog, last month.In August, private equity firm Brentwood Associates took a majority interest — 55 percent — in the company in a $150 million deal. With the help of the new partner’s resources and expertise, Soft Surroundings is looking to grow its retail footprint. Four or five stores are slated to open this year, and many more may be on the horizon.
