LCS Announces Successful Close of Vi Acquisition

Today, LCS announced it has closed on its merger agreement to acquire Vi – bringing together two of the strongest and most successful companies in the senior living industry.  The combined company will include 27,000 employees serving more than 45,000 residents across 130 communities in 29 states. 

“Today marks an incredible milestone as we officially move forward as one company, united by a shared purpose: to create exceptional senior living experiences at each of our communities,” said LCS CEO Chris Bird. “With regulatory approvals complete, we are excited to officially welcome Vi employees and residents. We’re ready to begin a new era together – one defined by innovation, shared purpose, and a commitment to shaping the future of senior living for the next generation of residents.” 

Going forward, Vi’s luxury brand will be preserved as a distinct LCS portfolio and its management team and communities will continue to be led by Vi President & CEO, Gary Smith, from Vi’s Chicago-based office. Smith will report to Chris Bird and serve on the LCS executive leadership team.     

“This is the beginning of an exciting new chapter,” said Smith. “The combination of LCS’s and Vi’s expertise, reputation, scale and commitment to resident well-being creates an organization that is ready to meet the opportunities and challenges in the growing senior living industry. Together, we’re well poised to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs and interests of our current and future residents.” 

Together, LCS and Vi have over 90 years of combined experience in senior living—an extraordinary depth that has shaped both organizations into respected industry leaders. Vi has long been known for its luxury, hospitality-inspired Life Plan communities, and LCS, a leading owner and operator of Life Plan communities, has thoughtfully diversified its business to include a strong and enduring commitment to not-for-profit Life Plan community operations along with over 50 rental communities. 

“We are taking an intentional and thoughtful approach as we bring our organizations together to combine and optimize our strengths,” added Bird. “Our residents—and the dedicated people who support them—remain our top priority. Our communities and residents will continue to receive the exceptional services and high-quality care they do today.”