News

February 8, 2008

Norwest Mezzanine Partners Invests $7.0 Million in UMA Enterprises, Inc.

Norwest Mezzanine Partners invested $4.6 million of senior subordinated debt and $2.4 million of equity in UMA Enterprises, Inc., a leading full-service importer and wholesaler of home décor products. Headquartered in Compton, CA, UMA is distinguished by its unmatched product offering, competitive price points and high degree of customer service. UMA serves a diverse customer base including specialty retail stores, furniture stores, discount stores, distributors and non-traditional home décor retailers throughout the United States and internationally.

Long Point Capital served as the private equity sponsor on this transaction. Visitwww.longpointcapital.com for more information.

NMP Contact: Carter Balfour, 612-215-1664, cbalfour@nmp.com

Norwest Equity Partners (NEP) is a leading middle market investment focused on partnering with business owners and building companies into industry leaders. With a reputation for quality investments and exceptional financial returns since 1961, NEP manages nearly $5 billion of capital through a series of equity and mezzanine funds. Offering creative and flexible transaction solutions through management buyouts, recapitalizations and growth financings, NEP seeks $30-$150 million equity investment opportunities for growing and profitable companies within the agriculture, applied technology, business services, consumer products and services, distribution, healthcare and industrial industry sectors. NEP is headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota; please visit nep.com for more information.