BWW Photo Partner and Leading Photo Agency Retna Acquired by Veteran Investment Team

Sam Pugliese and Marc Wexler today announced that they have agreed to acquire a controlling interest in Retna, one of the largest independent photo agencies in the world (and a photo partner of BroadwayWorld.com). Marc Wexler and Sam Pugliese will serve as company presidents. Jessica Daly, has been named CEO.

"Since its founding nearly thirty years ago, Retna has established itself as one of the premier brands in the stock photography sector," said Pugliese. "Our goal is to continue to build on Retna's reputation and unique position within the marketplace to provide unparalleled services to small- and mid-sized companies seeking visually compelling and affordable artwork to support marketing and advertising efforts."

Prior to acquiring Retna, Pugliese and Wexler founded one of the fastest growing frozen snacks companies in the United States. Silhouette Brands Inc., founded in 1994 was sold to Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream Holdings in July, 2004. In Retna, management will apply similar niche marketing techniques to fuel expansion.

"By identifying an underdeveloped but rapidly expanding market segment in fat-free frozen ice cream, we were able to rapidly grow Skinny Cow Ice Cream into a dominant player in a profitable niche. We see similar opportunity in the Retna acquisition," said Wexler. "Combining the vast marketing experience of our management team, with a respected specialty photo agency, we expect to achieve superior returns on our investment while continuing to provide the exceptional level of service for which Retna is known."

"Artistic vision has always been the cornerstone of Retna's foundation," said Jessica Daly, CEO of Retna. "We remain committed to attracting and retaining the most talented photographers and staff in the industry. We have also identified a series of operational improvements including technological innovations that will enhance the Retna service offerings for our clients."

Current Retna employees Walter McBride, Kellie McLaughlin and John Espinosa will remain with the company following the acquisition. Their expanded roles with the organization are to be announced. Mr. McBride has over 25 years of experience with Retna in the celebrity sales group.  Espinosa of the music sales team, and McLaughlin, a photography director, have each been with the company for over ten years.

"Walter, Kellie and John are among the most-respected and longest-tenured employees at Retna, and have been instrumental in the success of the company," Daly added. "We are delighted that they have agreed to remain with the organization and look forward to their continued contributions."