CI Capital Partners, a North American private investment firm, has acquired Galls, LLC, a USD163 million revenue, full service marketer and distributor of public safety, first responder and private security products, from ARAMARK Corporation. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Founded in 1967, the Lexington, Kentucky based Galls markets and sells uniforms, duty gear, footwear, medical supplies and other products used by law enforcement, fire safety, emergency medical, private security and corrections personnel. The Company has built its reputation by providing customers with the industry’s broadest offering of well-recognised products, fast delivery and a high level of customer service including the ability to customise uniforms to meet demanding specifications. Galls markets and sells products to a diverse mix of end users ranging from individual police officers and firefighters, to the nation’s largest public safety agencies. Galls markets its products through an internationally-recognised catalog, a fully integrated e-commerce platform, highly trained inside and outside sales forces, and nine retail service centre locations.
“Galls has distinguished itself in its product niche and has built a loyal customer base through its commitment to quality and a strong customer service focus,” says Steven M Lefkowitz, President of CI Capital. “We are excited to make this investment in an excellent platform with a long and successful history. We look forward to partnering with Larry Dismukes and his seasoned management team to capitalize on opportunities for strategic growth initiatives."
Larry Dismukes, President of Galls, says: “We are thrilled to complete a transaction that will provide Galls with the ability to continue its internal growth as well as pursue attractive acquisition opportunities. CI Capital has a long track record of growing distribution businesses and we are excited to build significant value at Galls.”
“The company’s highly recognisable brand and leading industry presence uniquely positions it for further growth by expanding into new markets and reaching out to new customers,” says Thomas Ritchie, Managing Director at CI Capital. “The public safety products distribution sector remains highly fragmented, and we look forward to supporting Galls as an active industry consolidator.”
PNC Business Credit provided financing for the transaction.
Stephens Inc. acted as financial advisor to ARAMARK. Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP provided legal counsel to ARAMARK and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP provided legal counsel to CI Capital.
