Reform RX Celebrates First Exit for Northern Ireland Equity Fund Through Acquisition by iFIT Inc.

Deal News | May 21, 2025 | Clarendon Fund Managers Limited

Reform RX Celebrates First Exit for Northern Ireland Equity Fund Through Acquisition by iFIT Inc.

In a notable development, Pilates reformer manufacturer Reform RX has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first exit from the Investment Fund for Northern Ireland (IFNI) through its acquisition by the US-based connected fitness equipment leader, iFIT Inc. The financial terms of the transaction remain undisclosed. Established with a mission to address funding gaps and foster economic growth, the IFNI was launched by The British Business Bank to provide financial support for innovative and scaling businesses in Northern Ireland. Managed by Clarendon Fund Managers, the fund offers a combination of debt and equity investments with an eye on nurturing innovation across industries. Reform RX’s acquisition marks a pivotal exit for the IFNI, which was part of a broader 1.6 billion commitment to regional investment funds. Reform RX, co-founded by Pilates experts Yvette and Neal McGaffin in 2018, has witnessed remarkable growth, particularly following its recent investment round, which included significant backing from IFNI. The acquisition aligns with iFIT Inc.’s strategy to expand globally and enhance its technological offerings in the fitness industry. Comments from key stakeholders, including Yvette McGaffin, acknowledge the alignment of Reform RX's vision with iFIT Inc., emphasizing the shared commitment to fitness innovation. As the first exit from the fund since its inception, the acquisition demonstrates the potential of Northern Ireland's innovative companies and signifies a promising future for local businesses looking to engage with global markets. The IFNI’s efforts in driving growth and innovation in Northern Ireland are further validated by this exit, highlighting the fund’s role in supporting companies’ growth journeys.

Sectors

  • Fitness Equipment Manufacturing
  • Private Equity and Venture Capital

Geography

  • Northern Ireland – Reform RX is based in Northern Ireland, and the acquisition was facilitated by the Investment Fund for Northern Ireland.
  • United States – The acquiring company, iFIT Inc., is based in the United States.

Industry

  • Fitness Equipment Manufacturing – Reform RX specializes in manufacturing connected Pilates reformers, placing it within the Fitness Equipment Manufacturing industry.
  • Private Equity and Venture Capital – The acquisition involves Clarendon Fund Managers and the Investment Fund for Northern Ireland, both of which provide equity investments and financial support to growing businesses.

Financials

  • 1.5 million – Reform RX closed an investment round of 1.5m in June 2024, which included a 1m investment from the Investment Fund for Northern Ireland.
  • 7.2 million – The IFNI equity fund deployed 7.2m of equity investment in its first year of operation.
  • 17.6 million – IFNI leveraged a total of 17.6m of investment in seven local companies.
  • 33 million – Clarendon Fund Managers manages the 33m equity fund of the IFNI.
  • 70 million – The total commitment of new funding by the Investment Fund for Northern Ireland.

Participants

NameRoleTypeDescription
Reform RXTarget CompanyCompanyA Pilates reformer manufacturer known for high-quality connected equipment.
Clarendon Fund ManagersPE FirmCompanyManages the 33m equity fund under the Investment Fund for Northern Ireland.
iFIT Inc.BuyerCompanyA US-based leader in connected fitness equipment.
British Business BankGovernmentGovernmentLaunched the Investment Fund for Northern Ireland to support regional economic growth.
Yvette McGaffinCo-Founder of Reform RXPersonFunctional movement specialist and Pilates expert, co-founder of Reform RX.
Neal McGaffinCo-Founder of Reform RXPersonCo-founder of Reform RX, instrumental in the company's growth.