#United States #River Associates #Chattanooga #Align Capital #Trident Solutions

River Associates Successful Exit of Trident Solutions

On September 3, 2026, River Associates Investments, L.P. announced the successful sale of Trident Solutions to Align Capital Partners. This notable transaction, which closed on August 31, 2026, signifies River Associates' third exit for the year, reinforcing its solid track record in the lower middle market investment sector.

Trident Solutions, headquartered in Plano, Texas, is widely recognized for its provision of safety marking, identification, and damage prevention solutions. Catering to a variety of sectors including utility, infrastructure, construction, industrial, and OEM markets, Trident boasts a diverse portfolio of trusted brands such as Presco, Pro-Line Safety Products, William Frick Company, Rhino Marking Protection Systems, LEM Products, and Uticom Systems. The company offers an extensive range of products designed to ensure safety and infrastructure protection. Their offerings include tracer wire, marking posts, stake flags, markers, signs, tags, tape, labels, and engineered films aimed at safeguarding workers and the public.

During the announcement, Blair Cook, CEO of Trident, expressed gratitude towards River Associates for their collaboration, emphasizing how the firm’s experience and resources were instrumental in strengthening Trident's consumer focus. He remarked, “They not only brought relevant experience and valuable resources but also trusted our management team to lead while building Trident into a stronger and more customer-focused company.”

Blake Lewis, Principal at River Associates, praised the achievements during their hold period, stating that the successful integration of five acquisitions, facility consolidations, and operational improvements contributed significantly to Trident’s successful market positioning.

This exit marks not only a successful venture for River Associates but also opens the door for Trident Solutions to explore new growth stages under Align Capital Partners. River Associates’ successful history includes over 130 transactions since its establishment in 1989, focusing on lower middle market investments, particularly those with initial EBITDA ranging from $3-12 million. The firm has prioritized investing in various niche manufacturers, high-margin distributors, and industrial service providers.

For further inquiries or to view potential opportunities regarding this transaction, individuals are encouraged to contact Mark Jones or Kirby Poindexter, both of whom were closely involved in the proceedings.

The sale of Trident Solutions serves as a testament to River Associates' robust investment strategy and operational execution, laying a strong foundation for future partnerships and investment potential.

As River Associates embarks on this next chapter, the firm continues to demonstrate its commitment to strategic growth and development, paving the way for other companies in the lower middle market to thrive under its guidance.

About River Associates

Founded in 1989, River Associates is based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and has established a long-standing commitment to investing in the lower middle market for over 35 years. The firm’s strategic approach focuses on nurturing privately held companies, equity-backed ventures, or divestitures from larger entities. With $345 million of committed capital in its eighth investment fund, River Associates remains opportunistic across various industries, continually seeking avenues for growth and success.