#United States #Lancaster #Trout Capital #HPS Specialties #Ferguson Enterprises

Trout Capital Advisors Facilitates Strategic Acquisition

Trout Capital Advisors has announced its role as the exclusive financial advisor for HPS Specialties, LLC, a notable distributor of specialty engineered products. Recently, HPS Specialties entered into a sale agreement with Ferguson Enterprises Inc., a significant player in the market based in Newport News, Virginia. The acquisition, finalized on June 16, 2025, marks a pivotal moment for both Trout Capital and the companies involved.

Details of the Transaction

The transaction, completed in under six months, reflects strong interest from various acquirers, which included both strategic buyers and private equity investors. This successfully managed sell-side process is not just a testament to HPS's robust market position but also illustrates the efficacy of Trout Capital Advisors in navigating competitive landscapes. The outcome signifies Ferguson's commitment to expanding its footprint along the East Coast while enhancing its market position in the specialty product arena.

Significance for Ferguson Enterprises

The acquisition aligns perfectly with Ferguson's ongoing strategy to provide innovative solutions in plumbing and HVAC systems to specialized trade professionals. By incorporating HPS Specialties into its operations, Ferguson is set to enhance its capabilities and reach, benefitting both companies and their clients. This strategic move is seen as a vital part of Ferguson’s growth strategy, solidifying its competitive edge in the market.

Voices from the Industry

Eric Gaumer, Co-President of HPS Specialties, expressed gratitude towards Trout Capital Advisors for their invaluable assistance throughout the sale process. He noted, “From the beginning, they educated us on every step of the process, enabling a level of preparedness that clearly benefitted our negotiations.” This sentiment was echoed by Andrew Rice, Managing Partner at Trout Capital Advisors, who stated that Ferguson emerged as a highly motivated buyer capable of providing a foundation for HPS to expand its operations and serve its clientele more effectively.

Davis Yoho, another Co-President of HPS Specialties, commented on the shared vision and values between the two companies, underscoring the mutual commitment to customer service and employee welfare, which played a critical role in their decision-making process.

Legal Guidance

The legal aspects of the transaction were managed by Kevin Loechl, Quincy Jackson, and Colton Francoeur from Bird Loechl McCants Holliday, ensuring a smooth transition and compliance with all regulatory requirements.

About Trout Capital Advisors

Trout Capital Advisors, LLC is a boutique investment banking firm dedicated to serving lower-middle market businesses, particularly focusing on founder- and family-owned companies. With a strong emphasis on providing tailored advisory solutions, the firm is committed to helping its clients navigate significant business transitions successfully. As part of Trout CPA, a leading provider of accounting and advisory services, the firm brings extensive experience and a client-centered approach to all its engagements.

For more information on Trout Capital Advisors and their offerings, please visit their website at www.troutcapital.com.