Middle West Partners has completed the purchase of Lugano Jewelry, incorporating the luxury retailer into its collection of brands alongside David Webb. The agreement was finalized on September 30, 2026, following Lugano’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in November 2025. The transaction involved a court-approved asset sale, with Middle West Partners and a coalition of the brand’s long-term customers acquiring the operational business.
This acquisition bolsters Middle West Partners’ presence in the high-end jewelry market, building on its earlier purchase of David Webb in April 2025. While both brands share a reputation for refined design and meticulous craftsmanship, the deal strengthens the investment firm’s position in the luxury jewelry sector.
The company will continue operating under the name Lugano Jewelry, dropping its former identity as Lugano Diamonds & Jewelry. Its headquarters and production workshop will remain in Newport Beach, California, alongside its four retail locations in Newport Beach, Aspen, Ocala, and Miami. The brand’s mobile boutique, which caters to clients in the equestrian community, will also stay active.
Leadership stability is ensured by Josh Gaynor, who has been named CEO and will serve on the board. Gaynor had acted as interim CEO since May 2025, guiding the company through its restructuring. The manufacturing facility and operational infrastructure will remain unchanged, preserving the brand’s ties to its core customer base.
For Middle West Partners, this deal expands its influence in the luxury jewelry sector, an area where investors increasingly seek established brands with dedicated customer bases. The firm now owns two distinct high-end labels, each with its own design philosophy and affluent audience. The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed, but they reflect Lugano’s brand strength and existing retail network.
The brand’s emergence from bankruptcy relies on maintaining its identity and customer relationships. The retention of its physical stores, workshop, and executive team suggests a priority on operational consistency over rapid expansion.
