Custom manufacturer sells to upper Midwest private equity firm

Client need

An architectural woodworking custom manufacturer (the company) was founded in 1988 in the upper Midwest. They manufacture custom architectural woodwork elements for commercial construction, restaurant and retail chains, department stores and custom residential casework. The company is a one-stop-shop with its broad range of design and build capabilities, agile response to customer requirements, and ability to work with all its customers' project partners.

The current owner has been with the company since 1992 and became the sole owner in 2013 when he bought out his partner’s shares. Baker Tilly Capital, LLC (Baker Tilly Capital) worked with the current owner on that transaction and the company has been a Baker Tilly client since then.

Over the next 11 years, the owner worked to diversify the end markets the company served, attract new customers and provide new opportunities for his employees. As the owner looked to transition away from his day-to-day role and move towards retirement, he knew he would need to bring in a third party to own the company.

Baker Tilly Capital solution

Recognizing the significance of selecting the right partner, Baker Tilly Capital ran a full sell side process and worked with the owner to find the right buyer to continue the company’s focus on the customer, high quality products and dedication to its employees that have been in place for 35+ years.

Results

Baker Tilly Capital found an upper Midwest private equity firm focused on manufacturing businesses and industrial real estate. Partnering with the private equity firm will allow the owner to transition from day to day to a board of directors’ role, while keeping the existing management team in place. Baker Tilly tax will provide post-transaction tax services to the owner.

To learn more about how Baker Tilly can help your organization with transactions, contact our M&A team.