#Italy #Milan #Platinum Equity #Trime #Andrea Fontanella

Platinum Equity Partners with Trime's Founder for Strategic Acquisition

In a notable move in the equipment rental industry, Platinum Equity has announced a definitive agreement to acquire a majority stake in Trime, a prominent Italian manufacturer specializing in mobile lighting towers, generators, and security solutions. This strategic partnership marks a significant step for both Platinum Equity and Trime, aiming to leverage Platinum's operational acumen and extensive rental market expertise to bolster Trime's growth, particularly in the U.S. market.

Founded by Andrea Fontanella, the acquisition involves Trime's management, including CEO Paolo Tacconi, who will invest alongside Platinum Equity. While financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, its completion is anticipated in early 2027, subject to standard closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

Louis Samson, Co-President of Platinum Equity, expressed his longstanding admiration for Trime, emphasizing that the company operates in a robust market driven by essential infrastructure spending. He noted that with continued investments in data centers and power generation on a global scale, there's substantial potential for growth. Samson highlighted Platinum's industry relationships and operational resources as key assets that could help scale Trime's business.

"Our relationship-driven approach and our cultural understanding of the Italian market have been fundamental to this transaction," said Samson. "Our team has built trust and fostered relationships with Trime's leadership over many years, which greatly influenced this partnership. We respect what Trime has established and look forward to supporting its growth trajectory."

Trime's Comprehensive Range of Products

Headquartered in Cassinetta di Lugagnano, close to Milan, Trime has developed a wide array of equipment utilized across various sectors, including infrastructure, construction, mining, and emergency services. Their diverse product lineup includes conventional, hybrid, battery-powered, and solar-powered solutions, which have garnered significant traction in North America, serving equipment-rental companies and contractors.

Platinum Equity's proven track record in the equipment rental sector includes notable transactions such as the sale of BlueLine Rental and current portfolio companies like Custom Truck One Source and Electro Rent. Their experience positions them well to capitalize on Trime’s established foothold in North America, where demand for Trime’s offerings is rapidly increasing.

Trime has also cultivated strong relationships with leading rental firms in North America, and both Platinum and Trime’s management envision expanding their customer base within the rental market. The growth strategy will emphasize enhancing production capacity, expanding U.S. sales operations, and improving customer support. Furthermore, there will be a focus on product innovation and selective acquisitions within the industry.

Fontanella shared his excitement about collaborating with Platinum Equity, stating, "We sought a partner who not only respects our entrepreneurial culture but can also facilitate our international growth, particularly in the U.S. market. Platinum’s extensive experience in the rental industry and their personal approach make them an ideal partner for us."

Trime has built trust and rapport with the American market over the years, and the partnership with Platinum aims to further enhance this relationship and capture a larger share of the equipment rental sector. If successful, this collaboration could ultimately transform Trime into a formidable player in the U.S. market.

Platinum Equity's Commitment to International Growth

The acquisition aligns with Platinum Equity’s strategy to invest in European firms with solid market positions and international reach. With existing investments in the region, including the De Wave Group and Fantini Group, this move underscores the firm’s commitment to supporting businesses that demonstrate substantial potential for growth through local expertise and global operational capabilities.

As financial advisors for the acquisition, Clearwater is providing support alongside Alvarez & Marsal for due diligence, while EY and FRM are advising on tax and structuring. Legal guidance is being supplied by Legance, with market financing sourced from major banking institutions.

Overall, the strategic partnership between Platinum Equity and Trime embodies a forward-thinking approach that aims to catapult Trime into a new phase of growth and operational excellence on a global scale.