Leonard Green & Partners

Founded in 1989 by Leonard I. Green, the firm emerged following the dissolution of Gibbons, Green and van Amerongen Ltd. The predecessor firm was a pioneer in leveraged buyouts, a strategy LGP continued to refine. After Leonard Green's death in 2002, the firm transitioned to leadership under John G. Danhakl, Peter J. Nolan, and Jonathan D. Sokoloff.

The firm is recognized as one of the largest private equity players globally, ranking 18th in the PEI 300 as of 2024. LGP focuses on a variety of investment strategies including traditional buyouts and PIPE (Private Investment in Public Equity) deals. A notable example was their 2007 investment in Whole Foods Market, which provided the capital to facilitate subsequent acquisitions of major retail brands like J.Crew and Jo-Ann Stores.

LGP has invested in over 95 companies since its inception. While the firm has seen significant success with exits like the $18.25 billion sale of SRS to Home Depot, it has also faced scrutiny regarding its management of healthcare assets. Specifically, its involvement with Prospect Medical Holdings led to legal challenges and public criticism regarding the financial stability of the hospitals under its control.