The Fund also eliminated its position in specialty retailer Ann Inc (ANN). The disclosure of significant positions in Ann Inc. by a private equity firm and activist investors stoked considerable interest in the company’s stock, causing it to rise to our valuation level in a relatively short period of time. On March 20, 2014, Golden Gate Capital (a private equity firm that specializes in the retailing sector) disclosed a 9.5% equity stake in Ann Inc. Additionally, in August, activist hedge fund Engine Capital, along with hedge fund Partner Red Alder LLC, began a public campaign to push management to conduct a strategic review and possible sale of the company.
From Robert Olstein (Trades, Portfolio)’s Strategic Opportunities Fund Q3 2014 Letter to Shareholders - Value Investors That Think Like Business Owners.
