Sentinel Capital Partners, a firm specializing in investments in mid-sized companies, has recently acquired High Bar Brands, LLC, a producer and distributor of aftermarket products for heavy-duty trucks and trailers. The financial terms of the acquisition have not been made public.
With a history approaching 100 years, High Bar Brands offers a range of products, including poly fenders, floormats, couplings, pintle hitches, stainless steel accessories and mud flaps. The company is known for its iconic brands such as Minimizer, Premier Manufacturing, Dieters, Panelite and Viking. Sentinel said HBB’s customer base spans across the Americas, catering to more than 1,300 aftermarket distributors, dealers, and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). Fleet managers and owner-operators in various sectors, including infrastructure and transportation utilize its products, the company said.
Christopher “CT” Thorpe, CEO of HBB, underscored the company’s market approach and its focus on meeting the specific needs of fleets. “HBB’s differentiated go-to-market strategy is a win for all our channel partners,” Thorpe said. “Our deep connections with drivers, owners, and fleet managers play a crucial role in establishing our brands as industry standards for quality.”
Owen Basham, a partner at Sentinel, praised High Bar Brands’ strong market standing, noting the leading positions of its brands within their categories. “We’re excited to partner with HBB and its talented management team through its next chapter of growth,” Basham remarked.
Sentinel has a history of investing in the vehicle aftermarket sector, with previous stakes in companies like Empire Auto Parts, Holley, SONNY’S Enterprises and Vintage Parts, the company said.
