Lund International, a portfolio company of Highlander Partners, has acquired all of the operating assets of AMP Research.
AMP Research is a provider of automatic power articulating running boards, bed steps, bed extenders and related products. The company’s products are designed to improve the function and utility of cars, light trucks and SUVs. Brand names include POWERSTEP, BEDSTEP, BEDSTEP2 and BEDXTENDER HD. AMP was founded in 1980 and is based in Tustin, CA (www.amp-research.com).
“This acquisition, Lund’s third so far in 2013, confirms our strategy to seek strategic opportunities that build on and expand Lund’s existing business and product offering. AMP is clearly one of the leaders in innovation and development, and its product line is highly complementary to Lund’s other automotive accessory offerings,” said Jeff Hull, Chairman of Lund and Managing Partner of Highlander. “As with our previous acquisitions, we plan to leverage the strength of our brand and distribution capabilities to ensure AMP’s products reach a broader audience than was previously accessible to them. We continue to evaluate numerous other opportunities and expect to make additional acquisitions going forward.”
Lund International is a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded automotive aftermarket accessories for passenger cars, light trucks, and heavy trucks. Its products include vent visors, hood shields, floor mats, tonneau covers, storage boxes, and running boards, among others. The company is based in Buford, GA (www.lundinternational.com).
Regions Business Capital, along with a syndicate of participating lenders, provided senior financing for this transaction.
Highlander Partners makes investments in middle market businesses in targeted industries in which the principals of the firm have significant operating and investing experience. Sectors of interest include healthcare, basic manufacturing, food, and building materials. The firm has over $500 million in capital under management and is based in Dallas (www.highlander-partners.com).
© 2013 PEPD • Private Equity’s Leading News Magazine • 10-7-13
