Livingstone secures capital for New York City physical therapy platform

Livingstone is pleased to announce the formation of MOTION PT Holdings, Inc. combining Brooklyn-based Metro SportsMed (“MSM”) and Manhattan-based STAR Physical Therapy to create one of the largest physical therapy platforms in New York City. Pharos Capital Group, LLC provided the growth recapitalization needed to effectuate the transaction. Livingstone acted as the exclusive financial advisor to MSM and STAR. Deal terms were not disclosed.

“Livingstone provided expert guidance throughout this complicated transaction and facilitated a competitive marketing process to provide MSM and STAR shareholders a variety of attractive alternatives to consummate MOTION’s formation,” commented David S. Menche, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon and founder of MSM, who will become Chairman of MOTION.

MOTION, headquartered in Brooklyn, New York, is a leading provider of comprehensive physical and occupational therapy services in Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Long Island. The Company operates from 10 locations, employing a hybrid model of traditional outpatient clinics, hospital-affiliated outpatient clinics (on-site and satellite locations), and contract therapy for inpatient rehabilitation. The Company’s exceptional clinical staff delivers proven, evidence-based treatment that results in positive patient outcomes.

Livingstone Director Ryan Buckley added, “We are thrilled to have helped forge the formation of MOTION and to secure growth capital to accelerate the Company’s platform expansion alongside Pharos. Pharos, in partnership with management, will be able to leverage this unique and scalable platform to build a leader in the attractive northeastern U.S. physical therapy market.”

Edward R. Miersch, a distinguished executive with senior leadership positions at multiple national physical therapy operators, will become the CEO and President of MOTION. Michael Fox and Benjamin Gelfand of STAR will become MOTION’s Chief Clinical Director and Chief of Clinical Services, respectively.

“Pharos has unique experience with underserved markets and mid-sized healthcare businesses, and we are delighted to be working with Dr. Menche, Ed, and the MOTION management team to find bolt-on acquisition opportunities that will help the platform build the premier physical therapy network,” commented Pharos Partner Jim Phillips.

Pharos’ involvement will support management with business-building experience and significant capital to fund the de novo and acquisition-led expansion of the Company within New York and other geographies.

Mr. Miersch noted, “Partnering with a well-respected investment firm will give us the resources and capital to rapidly execute on our growth strategy in this fragmented, consolidating market.”

Livingstone is among the most active M&A advisors to the physical therapy industry. This transaction builds on numerous deals with ATI Physical Therapy and the acquisition of PT Solutions by New Harbor Capital.

Covington & Burling LLP and Nixon Peabody LLP served as MOTION’s legal advisors. McGuireWoods LLP served as legal counsel to Pharos and Lattimore, Black, Morgan & Cain, P.C. was Pharos’ financial consultant.