New York, New York – Calder Capital, a leading middle-market investment bank, is honored to announce its recognition as a finalist at the 24th Annual M&A Advisor Awards in the category of Industrials Deal of the Year ($25MM–$50MM). The recognition highlights Calder’s advisory role in the acquisition of Griffen Plumbing & Heating, a leading provider of HVAC and plumbing services based in Elkhart, Indiana, by Astra Service Partners, headquartered in New York City.
Through the transaction, Calder’s Sell-Side team showcased the ability to design and execute a complex transaction that balanced the company’s legacy with strategic expansion. Under the leadership of Todd Mikel, Griffen Plumbing & Heating has grown into one of Northern Indiana’s most respected HVAC and plumbing providers. The acquisition by Astra Service Partners will provide the resources and platform needed to accelerate growth while preserving Griffen’s outstanding reputation for service and quality.
The diligence and closing process were seamless and highly collaborative. Orion’s team proved to be communicative, responsive, and professional, an ideal buyer from an advisor’s perspective. From signing the LOI to closing, the transaction was completed in under four months. Thanks to the strong cultural fit and mutual trust established early on, the process was so smooth that the sellers even felt comfortable taking a vacation during diligence. Both parties remained aligned throughout and quickly built a foundation of confidence and respect.

Calder Capital’s Founder, Max Friar, expressed pride in the recognition, stating, “Our team is committed to pairing exceptional founder-led companies with the right strategic partners; this transaction is a perfect example of this in play. We’re grateful that The M&A Advisor’s judges recognized the transaction’s significance, which not only secures the Griffen legacy but also paves the way for continued growth under Astra’s stewardship. Congratulations to our entire team and thank you to Matt Uhl for his leadership as the M&A Advisor on this deal.”
The transaction required thoughtful navigation of operational, cultural, and strategic considerations, ensuring a successful transition of ownership and leadership. Calder’s expertise in identifying qualified partners, structuring deals, and aligning the long-term interests of both sides proved critical in achieving this successful outcome.
With Astra Service Partners’ support, Griffen Plumbing & Heating is well-positioned to expand its service capabilities, strengthen its Midwest presence, and continue delivering exceptional value to its customers.
For a complete list of the award finalists from the 24th Annual M&A Advisor Awards, please click here.
To read the full press release about the acquisition, please click here.
About The M&A Advisor:
Now in its 27th year, The M&A Advisor was founded to offer insights and intelligence on mergers and acquisitions, establishing the industry’s leading media outlet in 1998. Today, the firm is recognized as the world’s premier leadership organization for mergers & acquisitions, restructuring, and corporate finance professionals, delivering a range of integrated services to accelerate the pace of dealmaking. Learn more at www.MaAdvisor.com.
About Calder Capital:
Founded in 2013, Calder Capital is a cross-industry mergers and acquisitions advisory firm with offices across the United States. Calder provides valuation, sell-side, and buy-side services. We are nationally recognized for excellence in advising $1-100M enterprise value transactions in manufacturing, construction, distribution, and business services. Calder serves business owners, entrepreneurs, family offices, financial buyers, and investors. Learn more at www.CalderGR.com.