Plein Air, a marketing, technology, and data consultancy serving restaurant and retail brands, has secured a strategic investment from Coral Tree Partners, a Los Angeles-based private equity firm focused on media, marketing services, and marketing technology. The companies said the partnership will support Plein Air’s continued expansion, technology innovation, and delivery of high-touch services for its client base.
Founded in 2016, Plein Air said it works with restaurant and retail operators on performance across marketing, digital experience, and loyalty channels, combining tailored strategy with agile technology solutions. The firm also highlighted Big Colony, a platform it launched in 2023 to provide brands with customizable, highly branded, and integrated digital infrastructure while maintaining a brand’s look, personality, and message.
Plein Air’s leadership framed the deal as a way to scale while preserving a “white-glove” client approach and accelerating product and platform innovation across Plein Air and Big Colony. Coral Tree said it was attracted to what it described as Plein Air’s industry expertise, client relationships, and technology focus, and indicated it plans to support organic growth as well as strategic acquisitions while increasing investment in Big Colony.
Support: Canaccord Genuity served as financial advisor to Plein Air. Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP served as legal advisor to Plein Air, and Goodwin Procter LLP served as legal advisor to Coral Tree Partners.
KEY QUOTES
“Plein Air was built to solve real, on-the-ground challenges for restaurant and retail brands, and that mindset hasn’t changed as we’ve grown. This partnership with Coral Tree allows us to double down on what we do best and provide differentiated service and solutions for our client partners.”
Jason Abelkop, Co-CEO, Plein Air
“As demand for more integrated, data-driven marketing solutions continues to grow, it’s critical that we scale without losing the white-glove approach our clients value. Coral Tree is a true partner who understands our industry, our culture, and our long-term vision. With their support, we’re excited to accelerate innovation across Plein Air and Big Colony while broadening our impact and staying deeply client-focused.”
Paul McEnany, Co-CEO, Plein Air
“From our first conversations, it was clear that Plein Air brings a rare combination of deep industry expertise, strong client relationships, and a genuine passion for building differentiated technology. Jason, Paul, and the broader Plein Air team have built a special organization, and we’re excited to support them as they continue to scale the platform organically and via strategic acquisitions, invest in innovation through Big Colony, and deliver exceptional outcomes for their clients.”
Will Wynperle, Partner, Coral Tree Partners
