Rowmark, a portfolio company of Bertram Capital, has acquired LaserBits, a distributor of laser-able products sold to the awards and engraving markets. Mike Fruciano, the co-founder of LaserBits, has joined the Rowmark management team as part of the transaction.
LaserBits products include wood, leather, and metal in a wide variety of shapes and forms that are personalized or modified using laser engraving. In addition to its product offerings, LaserBits also offers educational services through the use of seminars and their Laser University operating division. LaserBits is headquartered in Phoenix with a branch location near Columbus, OH (www.laserbits.com).
“Given the evolution of the marketplace, we believe this acquisition further enhances Rowmark’s position as a leading partner and supplier to the engraving and laser markets” said Kevin Yamashita, Partner at Bertram Capital. The acquisition of LaserBits is the second add-on for the Rowmark platform since being acquired by Bertram Capital in September 2013.
Rowmark manufactures extruded plastic sheet for engraving and specialty applications used in the signage, engraving and awards markets. The company operates two divisions: Engraving Products and Premier Material Concepts (PMC). The Engraving Products division has the most recognized global brand of engravable sheet worldwide, which is sold exclusively through an international network of authorized distributors in more than 80 countries. PMC is a provider of highly engineered custom extruded sheet and roll stock for specialty thermoforming applications across a range of end markets. Rowmark is led by Duane Jebbett, President and CEO. The company was founded in 1987 and is based in Findlay, OH (www.rowmarkllc.com).
Bertram and Rowmark continue to seek additional add-on acquisitions such as manufacturers of engravable materials or personalization products; suppliers of consumable products and accessories; providers of sublimation products and accessories; and manufacturers of marking or digital print equipment.
Bertram Capital invests in middle-market business services, consumer, healthcare, industrial and technology companies that have revenues from $30 million to $250 million and EBITDA of $5 million to $30 million. The firm is located in San Mateo, CA (www.bertramcapital.com).
© 2015 PEPD • Private Equity’s Leading News Magazine • 8-25-15
