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Warby Parker Plans U.S. IPO As Soon as This Year

Warby Parker by Michael Falco | Source: NY Times

Prescription eyewear seller Warby Parker is considering an initial public offering as soon as this year, according to people familiar with the matter.

The New York-based company is in discussions with advisers on a potential listing, the people said, asking not to be identified as the information is private.

Warby Parker raised $120 million in its most recent funding round in 2020, giving it a value of $3 billion, according to PitchBook data. The company is targeting a valuation higher than that of its last fundraising, the people said.

Deliberations are at an early stage and the company could decide not to pursue an offering, the people said.

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“We’ve always explored various financing opportunities in both the debt and equity markets,” a Warby Parker spokesperson said in response to a request for comment. “We’ll continue to make strategic decisions in line with our commitment to sustainable growth.”

Launched in 2010 by a group of four classmates at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, Warby Parker sells low-cost prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses. The company, considered a pioneer of direct to consumer e-commerce, retails its products in the U.S. and Canada through its website as well as a network of physical outlets. Its investors include General Catalyst, Tiger Global Management, Forerunner Ventures, Spark Capital and Menlo Ventures.

By: Liana Baker and Katie Roof

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