Calder Capital is thrilled to announce the successful acquisition of CM Industries of Lake Zurich, Illinois, by Stacker Holdings of Chicago, Illinois.
Founded in 2001 by Zenny Kukich, CM Industries has grown into a market-leading manufacturer of high-performance welding products. The Lake Zurich-based company manufactures a range of welding products sold through its international distribution network. After many years of running and scaling the company, Zenny engaged Calder Capital to identify a partner fit to carry the business forward in his retirement.
“I will enjoy my free time, travel across the world, and have lots of fun with my grandkids,” Zenny noted when asked what he looks forward to most in retirement.
Stacker Holdings, a private equity firm based in Chicago, Illinois, specializes in partnering with business owners and management teams who care deeply about their companies. Stacker works alongside management teams to grow businesses, improve operations, and refine processes. The Company’s hands-on approach made them a unique and ideal partner for CM Industries.“We feel fortunate to be working with the team at CM Industries to continue the legacy of the business,” Austin Reichardt, Partner of Stacker Holdings, commented. We’re very excited about the opportunity to build a great business with great people over the long-term.”
Shane Kissack of Calder Capital served as the lead Mergers and Acquisitions Advisor to CM Industries, with Jake McDonald as the lead associate.
The Calder Capital team attracted the attention of 127 qualified buyers and secured 15 offers before entering into a letter of intent (LOI) with Stacker Holdings.
“I had a great working relationship with Shane and Calder Capital,” Zenny commented. “Without Shane, I would have a difficult time putting together all necessary paperwork that was needed for the buyers. It was a pleasant experience!”
“Our experience working with Shane couldn’t have been better,” Austin remarked. “His common sense, honest approach was critical to getting the deal done. It doesn’t surprise me why business sellers would trust Shane and Calder Capital to help them sell their life’s work.”
“A big congratulations to Zenny and the Stacker Holdings team on a successful acquisition,” noted Calder Managing Partner, Max Friar. “The CM Industries/Stacker Holdings transaction exemplifies a strategic and synergistic partnership in the manufacturing space. We are excited to see the continued growth and success of CM Industries under Stacker Holdings’ stewardship and I am proud of our Chicago mergers and acquisitions team on another transaction well done.”
Shane Kissack of Calder Capital commented, “This transaction showcased a great blend of effort and personalities from both the buyers and seller. Zenny built an impressive business and it was crucial to find buyers who listened and addressed his concerns with patience. The collaboration led to an excellent outcome and a perfect match.”
Calder Capital, LLC served as the exclusive Mergers and Acquisitions Advisor to CM Industries. Michael Best & Friedrich LLP served as legal counsel to Stacker Holdings, while Angela Villanueva from Williams & Baerson LLC served as legal counsel to CM Industries.
About CM Industries, Inc.
Located in Lake Zurich, Illinois, CM Industries, Inc. is a market-leading manufacturer of high-performance welding products. The company manufactures a range of welding products including Robotic Torches & Peripherals, MIG Guns & MIG Parts, Smoke Extractor MIG Guns & Fume Extractor MIG Guns, TIG Torches & Consumables, Torch Cleaning Stations, and more. Zenny Kukich established CM Industries in 2001 and expanded the CM team to 25 employees.
About Stacker Holdings
Stacker Holdings, headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, is a private equity firm that helps business owners and management teams who care deeply about their companies retire or obtain liquidity. Stacker Holdings focuses on a small group of companies and investment opportunities, allowing them to give more attention to each business. Their principles include humility, creativity, integrity, patience, relationship-building, and continuous learning.
About Calder Capital
Founded in 2013, Calder Capital, LLC is a lower middle market investment bank providing mergers and acquisitions advisory services to business owners, entrepreneurs, family offices, and investors across the United States. Our dedicated team of professionals combines extensive industry experience, technological innovation, negotiation savvy, and key relationships to exhibit exceptional execution. Calder’s services include mergers and acquisitions advisory, private funds and capital markets advisory, and business valuations.
