Transaction Summary
Calder Capital is delighted to share the successful acquisition of SignComp of Grand Rapids, Michigan, by Justin Murray and Sleeping Giant Capital of Kalamazoo, Michigan.
The Acquisition Story
East Lansing native Justin Murray was exposed to the world of small business from an early age. His family’s rich history of entrepreneurship sparked his interest in the field and inspired him to pursue a career in business. Over the years, Justin has gained a wealth of experience in general management and M&A roles with Fortune 500 companies, demonstrating his leadership skills and ability to drive critical projects to success. Justin is a youth basketball coach and leads a Marketing Leadership Advisory Board at Michigan State University. With a deep dedication to his local community, partnering with Sleeping Giant Capital in his acquisition journey was a natural fit.
Sleeping Giant Capital (SGC) was established in 2020 by Managing Directors Derrick McIver and Doug Lepisto, with the aim of empowering a new generation of leaders to acquire and grow businesses in West Michigan. The firm supports a team of professionals to become owner-operators through a 25-year fund while leveraging platform architecture to drive investment growth. Therefore, it was a natural fit for SGC to work with Justin Murray, and the pair engaged Calder Capital’s Buy-Side team to source quality acquisition candidates.
With a history dating back to 1948, SignComp has a long and proud tradition of excellence in sign fabrication, installation, and service. Founded in 1986, SignComp is headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Horsham, England, and maintains distribution networks that have expanded the company’s reach around the globe. As a leading provider of framing, cabinet, and raceway extrusion solutions for the sign industry, SignComp has earned a reputation for innovation and quality. The company’s success can be attributed largely to the contributions of Jason Lamberts, who joined the team in 2014. Jason will remain a minority owner in the company and looks forward to assisting with the strategic guidance of the company.
“I am truly honored to lead SignComp and continue its legacy here in West Michigan,” said Justin Murray. “We are poised to grow with our talented and experienced team and partners at Sleeping Giant Capital.”
“As an industry leader with international reach, SignComp has an exciting future ahead,” said Doug Lepisto, Managing Partner at Sleeping Giant Capital. “This investment exemplifies our novel approach to create long-term value by empowering West Michigan entrepreneurship, retaining talent, capital, and ownership in our region, and innovating higher education.”
“Justin has the character and experience to lead this company and help us achieve our next stage of strategic growth,” said Jason Lamberts. “Sleeping Giant Capital’s mission, long-term investment philosophy, and internal capabilities made them a perfect partner for this transition.”
Calder Capital’s Team & Results
Sam Scharich of Calder Capital served as the Lead Mergers & Acquisitions Advisor to Justin Murray and Sleeping Giant Capital. Serving as Lead Director was Hannah Nabhan and serving as Lead Associate was Parker Schaap of Calder Capital.
Parker’s tenured relationship with Jason Lamberts of SignComp enabled him to recognize synergies between SignComp and Justin Murray. He facilitated their introduction, led negotiations, and found common ground on complex technical and legal considerations to broker a successful partnership.
“Jason has built an impressive operation, and I am excited to see how Justin will continue the Company’s success. It was a great pleasure working with both of them,” commented Schaap.
“Calder’s Buy-Side team is firing on all cylinders. The Buy Side has closed on multiple deals and has many more under LOI and teed up to close. Parker embodies the Calder values of persistence and determination. Congratulations to Parker on a successful and significant transaction,” commented Calder’s Managing Partner, Max Friar.
Calder Capital served as the exclusive Buy-Side Mergers and Acquisitions Advisor to Sleeping Giant Capital.
About Sleeping Giant Capital
Sleeping Giant Capital is a Kalamazoo, Michigan-based investment firm focused on acquiring and operating lower middle market businesses in Michigan. Founded with a mission to provide opportunities for the next generation of entrepreneurial operators, Sleeping Giant Capital partners with talented individuals to acquire stable, cash-flowing businesses poised for growth. The firm specializes in long-term value creation through operational excellence, strategic investment, and fostering local leadership. To learn more, please visit www.SleepingGiantCapital.com.
About SignComp
SignComp is a leading manufacturer and supplier of extruded aluminum framing systems for the sign industry. With a rich history dating back to 1948, the company has been providing top-quality framing, cabinet, and raceway solutions for over 30 years. Headquartered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Horsham, England, the company boasts a SignComp has a wide distribution network that spans North America, Europe, the Pacific Rim, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Central, and South America. The company prides itself on its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer service, and is dedicated to helping sign fabricators and installers succeed in their businesses.
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.
