LA-CO Industries and MPE Partners: A New Era of Growth

July 27, 2024, 5:17 am
Morgenthaler Private Equity
ProductIndustryServiceManufacturingDesignPrintingSupplyAutomationEquipmentB2C
In the world of manufacturing, partnerships can be the spark that ignites growth. LA-CO Industries, a fourth-generation family-owned company, has found that spark in MPE Partners. This partnership, announced on July 23, 2024, marks a significant milestone for LA-CO as it celebrates 90 years of innovation and service.

LA-CO Industries, based in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, has built a reputation for quality. They specialize in industrial hand-held markers, plumbing chemicals, temperature indication tools, sterilization inks, and livestock identification products. Their products are not just tools; they are solutions that serve a diverse clientele across more than 70 countries. With operations extending to Blyes, France, LA-CO is a global player in its field.

The partnership with MPE Partners is more than just a financial transaction. It’s a strategic alliance aimed at accelerating growth. MPE Partners, with its roots in Cleveland and Boston, focuses on investing in lower middle-market companies. They seek to empower businesses like LA-CO, which have a strong foundation and a vision for the future. This investment positions LA-CO to expand its reach and enhance its product offerings.

Benjamin Kleiman, a fourth-generation family member and the current CEO, will continue to lead the company. His commitment to LA-CO is unwavering. He sees this partnership as a pathway to new opportunities. The investment from MPE aligns with his vision for growth and innovation. It’s a chance to leverage LA-CO’s rich history while pushing into new markets and product lines.

MPE Partners brings not just capital but expertise. Their approach is customer-centric, focusing on understanding market needs and responding with agility. This aligns perfectly with LA-CO’s long-standing commitment to customer service. The partnership aims to maintain the strong culture that has defined LA-CO for decades. It’s about nurturing relationships, both with customers and within the company.

The manufacturing landscape is evolving. Companies must adapt to stay relevant. With MPE’s backing, LA-CO is poised to embrace this change. The focus will be on organic growth strategies and potential acquisitions that complement their existing offerings. This dual approach will allow LA-CO to expand its footprint while enhancing its product portfolio.

LA-CO’s legacy is built on quality and performance. Their flagship brands—LA-CO, Markal, Tempil, and All-Weather—are synonymous with reliability. Each product is designed with the customer in mind, addressing unique applications across various industries. This dedication to quality has earned them a loyal customer base, which is crucial as they embark on this new chapter.

The timing of this partnership is significant. As LA-CO celebrates its 90th anniversary, it stands at a crossroads. The investment from MPE is a vote of confidence in the company’s future. It acknowledges the hard work and dedication that has brought LA-CO to this point. Now, with fresh capital and strategic guidance, the company can look ahead with optimism.

MPE’s investment is not just about numbers. It’s about people. The partnership will empower LA-CO’s management team to explore new avenues for growth. This includes enhancing their eCommerce capabilities and expanding their presence in international markets. The goal is to ensure that LA-CO remains an industry leader, an employer of choice, and a trusted partner for its customers.

The road ahead is filled with possibilities. LA-CO Industries is ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that come with growth. The partnership with MPE Partners is a catalyst for change. It’s a chance to innovate, expand, and continue a legacy that has lasted nearly a century.

In conclusion, the partnership between LA-CO Industries and MPE Partners is a significant development in the manufacturing sector. It symbolizes a commitment to growth, quality, and customer service. As LA-CO steps into this new era, it carries with it a rich history and a vision for the future. The journey is just beginning, and the possibilities are endless. With MPE’s support, LA-CO is set to soar to new heights, ensuring that its legacy of excellence continues for generations to come.