Kinderhook Industries announced today its acquisition of LAUB Holdings, LLC (Leonard) from Copeley Capital Management. Leonard represents Kinderhook’s 26th automotive/light-manufacturing platform since inception. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Leonard is one of the largest full-service retailers of truck accessories, trailers, and sheds in the United States. In operation since 1963, Leonard has served its customers through 59 retail locations in the Southeast. The company offers high-quality, complementary, specialized products geared toward professionals, do-it-yourself and do-it-for-me consumers, and truck enthusiasts. Leonard’s sheds are manufactured in the company’s Mount Airy, North Carolina, facility and its trailers are contract manufactured in the United States.
“With a nearly 60-year heritage, Leonard is a high-profile brand in its core markets. The Leonard team is excited to partner with Kinderhook to build Leonard’s footprint and bring quality products and trusted service to even more customers,” said Mike Pack, CEO of Leonard.
“Leonard offers a unique opportunity to invest in a distinct business model with an experienced management team in a sector in which Kinderhook has deep experience. Kinderhook plans to leverage its relationships within the automotive aftermarket to help accelerate Leonard’s growth,” said Tom Tuttle, managing director of Kinderhook Industries.
“Kinderhook is excited to partner with Mike Pack and his executive leadership team as they continue the geographic expansion of Leonard’s unique retail model which provides for a high touch, in-person experience that is beneficial to customers who are in the market for high quality sheds, trailers, and truck accessories,” added Paul Cifelli, managing director of Kinderhook Industries.
Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal counsel to Kinderhook. Piper Sandler & Co. served as the exclusive financial advisor and K&L Gates acted as legal advisor to Leonard and Copeley in connection with the transaction. Financing for the transaction was provided by Twin Brook Capital Partners LLC.
