$4.8 Billion Sale: How Ryan Lewendon Closed the Coke Deal and What Happened Next

Ryan Lewendon, co-founder of Giannuzzi Lewendon LLP, delves into the intricate world of high-stakes consumer brand deals, sharing insights from his journey, including the monumental $4.8 billion sale to Coke.

Author

Ben Sharf
July 26, 2024

In this week’s episode of the Turning Pro Podcast, hosts Ben Sharf and Adrian Alfieri chat with Ryan Lewendon, the co-founder of Giannuzzi Lewendon LLP.

Ryan's journey from a corporate lawyer to co-founding a firm that exclusively handles consumer-facing companies highlights his entrepreneurial spirit and knack for recognizing market opportunities. Since founding the firm with Nicholas Giannuzzi in 2011, Ryan has been at the forefront of legal services for emerging consumer brands, guiding them through complex legal landscapes and significant transactions.

Giannuzzi Lewendon LLP’s innovative approach to legal services for high-growth consumer brands has set a new industry standard, helping companies like Vitaminwater and BodyArmor achieve remarkable exits. In this episode, Ryan shares the story behind their ascent to prominence, the strategic moves that have cemented their reputation, and the dynamic relationships they've built with some of the most notable brands in the industry.

Catch Season 2, Episode 6 of the Turning Pro Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or YouTube.

The top 10 highlights from this week’s episode:

  1. Seize Unexpected Opportunities: Ryan's career with Vitaminwater began by chance, showing the importance of being open to unexpected opportunities and capitalizing on them.

  1. Focus on a Niche: Building a law firm dedicated to consumer products allowed Ryan and his partner to create a unique positioning, proving that specialization can lead to industry leadership.

  1. Value Long-Term Relationships: Developing long-term relationships with clients has been a cornerstone of Ryan's success, demonstrating the importance of trust and loyalty in business.

  1. Authenticity Matters: Ryan emphasizes the value of being authentic in business relationships, as genuine connections often lead to the most fruitful and enduring partnerships.

  1. Learn from Every Experience: Skills Ryan gained from running a bar, such as customer service and creating the right environment, translated into valuable business insights, highlighting the importance of diverse experiences.

  1. Criteria for Successful Investments: Ryan evaluates investments based on the founder, product, and timing, stressing the need for the right person, product-market fit, and market timing.

  1. Adapt and Innovate: Staying true to their niche allowed Giannuzzi Lewendon LLP to offer unparalleled expertise, but Ryan also highlights the importance of adapting to industry trends and innovations.

  1. Capitalize on Industry Trends: Ryan notes emerging trends like personalized nutrition and intelligent beauty products, encouraging entrepreneurs to stay ahead of market shifts.

  1. Strategic Networking: Attending industry events and conferences was crucial for Ryan’s firm in gaining new clients, underscoring the value of strategic networking and visibility.

  1. Perseverance and Patience: Building a successful firm takes time and effort, and Ryan’s journey underscores the importance of perseverance, patience, and continuous improvement.

Ryan’s entrepreneurial journey is filled with lessons on innovation, perseverance, and leadership. By following his insights on relationship-building, authenticity, and niche focus, aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders can navigate their own paths to success.

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