Rowmark, a manufacturer of extruded plastic sheet used for engraving and specialty applications, has been acquired by Bertram Capital. Rowmark represents Bertram Capital’s third platform investment in the plastics industry. In addition to the equity investment in Rowmark, Bertram Capital also provided subordinated debt to finance the acquisition.
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. The company was founded in 1987 and is based in Findlay, OH (www.rowmarkllc.com).
“Rowmark represents exactly the type of business Bertram Capital seeks to partner with, offering a compelling value proposition, world-class management team, and differentiated engineering and manufacturing capabilities,” said Jeff Drazan, Managing Partner of Bertram Capital. “By applying our business building methodology, we believe Rowmark is uniquely positioned for significant growth opportunities, through both organic initiatives and add-on acquisitions.”
Bertram Capital invests in middle-market business services, consumer, healthcare, industrial and technology companies. Bertram is currently investing out of its $500 million second fund and typically allocates $25 million to $100 million to each investment. Since the firm’s inception, Bertram has managed in excess of $850 million in committed capital and has completed 11 platform investments and 14 follow-on acquisitions. The firm is located in San Mateo, CA (www.bertramcapital.com).
“Rowmark is an established market leader with strong brand recognition, supported by state-of-the-art manufacturing and an unmatched distribution network,” said Kevin Yamashita, Partner at Bertram Capital. “Rowmark is led by a capable and experienced management team. They have built a platform with robust operating fundamentals and long standing customer relationships across a variety of industries. We look forward to further expanding Rowmark’s footprint and accelerating the company’s growth in partnership with management.”
© 2013 PEPD • Private Equity’s Leading News Magazine • 10-2-13
