Highlander Partners has acquired Hilo Nutrition, a maker of branded sports nutrition and performance gummies using natural ingredients.
Hilo was co-founded in 2018 by Andrew Sauer and Eric Torgeson. The Columbus, Ohio-based company collaborates with athletes, performance experts and nutritionists to deliver products that are flavor-balanced, easy to consume and effective.
Both Mr. Sauer and Mr. Torgeson will remain in their leadership positions in partnership with Highlander. “We are thrilled to join the Highlander family of businesses,” said Andrew Sauer, the president of Hilo. “Their strong operating experience in retail, digital, and manufacturing is unparalleled and will undoubtedly accelerate Hilo to the next level. Our ability to invest in all areas of growth will now be super-charged by our combination of talents.”
Highlander’s portfolio includes numerous food, beverage, health, and wellness companies. The firm intends to accelerate the growth of Hilo by targeting a larger but more focused audience, new products, strengthening its direct-to-consumer (DTC) business, and expanding distribution.
“We are very excited to partner with Eric and Andy to drive the Hilo brand,” said Jeff Hull, president and CEO of Highlander. “We believe the company has significant growth opportunities, which will be amplified by increased consumer awareness, product innovation, and expanded distribution. This acquisition underscores Highlander’s desire to invest in high quality branded companies. In particular, Highlander has a significant track record in the health and wellness industry, which we are confident can be applied to Hilo. We will continue to pursue emerging consumer-facing businesses with strong growth potential, outstanding products and excellent brand equity.”
Highlander 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 manufacturing, consumer products, industrial goods, automotive accessories, packaging, food and beverage, and specialty chemicals. The firm has over $2 billion in assets under management and is based in Dallas.
Private Equity Professional | September 16, 2020