Middle West Partners buys Lugano Jewelry brand
Lugano Jewelry, a U.S.-based luxury jewelry brand known for its custom designs and high-end collections, has been acquired by investment firm Middle West Partners alongside a group of its longstanding clients. The deal, finalized on September 30, 2026, follows a restructuring process that included a court-supervised asset sale after the brand filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in November 2025. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
The acquisition strengthens Middle West Partners’ position in the luxury jewelry sector, where it already owns David Webb, a New York-based brand acquired in April 2025. Lugano’s addition expands the firm’s portfolio in high-end jewelry, combining two brands recognized for unique design aesthetics and premium craftsmanship.
Lugano’s restructuring began after the company entered bankruptcy proceedings. The brand’s assets were initially purchased by Enhanced Retail Funding, a division of Gordon Brothers, before Middle West Partners and its client investors acquired the operating business. The transition introduces a new ownership structure, with longtime clients playing a key role in the investment group. The brand will now operate under Lugano Jewelry, replacing its prior name, Lugano Diamonds & Jewelry.
The move signals broader investor interest in established luxury jewelry brands, particularly those with loyal affluent customers and distinct product lines. For Middle West Partners, Lugano’s acquisition complements its existing ownership of David Webb, reinforcing its focus on the high-end jewelry market.
Under the new ownership, Josh Gaynor, who served as interim CEO since May 2025, has been appointed permanent CEO and will also join the board. This ensures leadership continuity as the brand handles its next phase. Lugano will retain its headquarters and jewelry workshop in Newport Beach, California, along with its four boutiques in Newport Beach, Aspen, Ocala, and Miami. The company will also keep its traveling boutique, which serves clients in the equestrian circuit—a key segment of its business.
The acquisition marks a turning point for Lugano, which had faced financial challenges before the restructuring. With a stable leadership team, an intact retail network, and a new ownership group aligned with its customer base, the brand is positioned to maintain its operations while Middle West Partners expands its luxury jewelry holdings.
