"3) We want to align ourselves with a shareholder and partner that thinks really long term (like we do at Zappos), as well as do what’s in the best interest of our existing shareholders and investors."
I read that as there was pressure from a shareholder for the short term. Some board member was pushing for an exit.
My understanding is that this was the case. I've seen some articles indicating that Zappos has struggled to meet the short-term financial goals of some of the investors, while staying aligned to its long-term objectives. So somebody was wanting to distribute their capital gains to their LPs.
I read that as there was pressure from a shareholder for the short term. Some board member was pushing for an exit.