#United States #New York #Kinderhook #RealTruck #Vehicle Accessories

Kinderhook Industries Earns Prestigious Deal of the Year Award

March 17, 2026 - New York
Kinderhook Industries, LLC has been awarded the Mid-Cap North America Deal of the Year by PE Hub for the successful sale of Vehicle Accessories Inc. to RealTruck Group, Inc. This significant transaction marks a notable achievement under Kinderhook's management, reflecting their strategic vision and tenacity in the automotive accessories market.

Overview of the Transaction

The transaction involves the sale of Vehicle Accessories Inc. (VAI), which is recognized as a leading manufacturer of essential vehicle accessories. The company offers a range of products including all-weather floor mats, running boards, protective door edge guards, and more. During Kinderhook's ownership, from its inception in February 2019, the organization pursued an aggressive buy-and-build strategy which led to the expansion of VAI's operational capabilities and product offerings.

Throughout its ownership period, Kinderhook successfully executed six acquisitions, scaling the company from one product category to over five. They also increased the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) relationships from five to an impressive 20, establishing VAI as a competitive and integrated player within the OEM dealer accessories ecosystem.

Significance of the Award

The PE Hub's Mid-Cap North America Deal of the Year Award honors a deal of a North American company made in the previous year, maintaining an enterprise value between $200 million and $1 billion. To qualify, the transaction must involve a majority stake purchase, along with private equity backing, and must see the target company either remain private or transition to a private status. The award underscores Kinderhook's excellence in investment and operational implementation strategies.

Tom Tuttle, Chairman of Kinderhook, commented on the recognition, stating, “PE Hub's acknowledgment not only validates the hard work invested in establishing VAI as a differentiated platform, but also highlights the belief we had in the dealer-installed accessories channel as a valuable yet underappreciated niche.”

Strategic Growth Through Partnership

The partnership between Kinderhook and VAI's operating management, led by J. Pearson, exemplifies the successful execution of Kinderhook's investment playbook. The focus on long-term value creation through close collaboration with management has effectively transformed VAI into a prominent player in the market, ultimately leading to its acquisition by RealTruck.

Nathan Druckenmiller, a Principal at Kinderhook, echoed this sentiment, stating, “VAI serves as a prime example of our dedication to creation and growth within the automotive sector. By leveraging our industry expertise and maintaining focus on enhancing value over time, we were able to cultivate a distinctive business that culminated in an impactful outcome.”

Closing Thoughts

The award was announced on March 16, 2026, affirming Kinderhook's status as a leading investment firm in the automotive industry. It symbolizes not only the successful execution of investments but also the ongoing dedication to fostering growth in the middle market segment, particularly within niche markets such as vehicle accessories.

As Kinderhook Industries continues to emphasize its investment philosophy, which aligns growth-oriented opportunities with financial acumen, the future looks bright for their continued role in transforming businesses across relevant sectors. For more about Kinderhook Industries and its innovative investment strategies, please visit their official website at www.kinderhook.com.