BRS Acquires Simpson Performance Products
February 20, 2015
NEW YORK, NY — February 20, 2015 — Bruckmann, Rosser, Sherrill & Co. (“BRS”), a New York-based private equity firm, announced today that it has acquired Simpson Performance Products Inc. (“Simpson” or the “Company”) from Carousel Capital and other stockholders. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Founded in 1959 by Bill Simpson and based in New Braunfels, TX, Simpson is the leading provider of critical motorsports safety equipment. Backed by best-in-class technical expertise, the Company has built a loyal following in the motorsports community among both professional and amateur drivers. Simpson’s comprehensive selection of advanced safety products includes head and neck restraints, helmets, firesuits, seat belts, window nets, parachutes, racing gloves and footwear. In addition to the respected Simpson brand, the Company designs, manufactures and markets the leading HANS brand of advanced head and neck restraints.
Tom Baldwin, a Managing Director of BRS, said, “We are very excited to build on the accomplishments of the Simpson team in setting the industry standard for quality and reliability. We look forward to continuing the Company’s focus on delivering cutting-edge safety solutions and extending its strong market position around the world.”
Chuck Davies, Chief Executive Officer of Simpson, said, “We are very pleased to partner with BRS due to their ability to provide valuable strategic guidance and support our growth strategy. I am confident that Simpson will continue its strong momentum of expanding into new racing segments and geographies.”
Kirkland & Ellis LLP acted as legal advisor to BRS. Fidus Partners acted as financial advisor and K&L Gates LLP acted as legal advisor to Carousel Capital.
About BRS
BRS is a New York based private equity firm with $1.4 billion of committed capital under management in three investment partnerships, focused on investing in middle market consumer goods and services businesses. Since 1996, BRS has purchased over 40 portfolio companies for aggregate consideration of over $6.4 billion. In addition, BRS portfolio companies have completed approximately $1.9 billion of add-on acquisitions. Prior to forming the firm, the founders of BRS were in the private equity business at Citicorp Venture Capital where they closed 25 transactions with aggregate transaction values totaling $5.8 billion.
Contact:
Mark Semer
Kekst and Company
(212) 521-4800