#United States #Investment #Hauppauge #StoneTree #Wilbar Group

Strategic Investment Announcement

On July 9, 2026, StoneTree Investment Partners, a private equity firm specializing in lower middle market industrial businesses, revealed its strategic investment in Wilbar Group. This move places StoneTree at the forefront of expansion for one of North America’s prominent manufacturers of aboveground swimming pools. The partnership is seen as a synergy between StoneTree's industrial focus and Wilbar Group's longstanding expertise in pool manufacturing.

About Wilbar Group

Founded in 1961 by the Cohen family, Wilbar Group has established itself as a leader in the design and manufacture of premium aboveground and semi-inground swimming pools. The company’s headquarters is based in Hauppauge, New York, complemented by facilities in LaSalle and Longueuil, Quebec. Wilbar's commitment to high-quality products encompasses a range of pool systems made from steel, resin, hybrid materials, and aluminum. This diverse catalog is accessible through a network of reputable dealers and distributors across the U.S., Canada, and other international markets.

Wilbar’s steadfast commitment to quality and domestic manufacturing has helped it to become a trusted name in the industry. The pool systems produced by Wilbar are not only known for their durability but also for their design, making them a popular choice among consumers and dealers alike.

Strategic Alignment with StoneTree

Kelly Grindle, CEO of Wilbar Group, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing that StoneTree's industrial focus and hands-on management style align closely with Wilbar’s culture and long-term goals. Grindle noted, “Our new partnership will enhance our ability to invest in our workforce, enhance our brand presence, and optimize operations while maintaining our commitment to product quality.”

Joel Stanwood, a partner at StoneTree, echoed these sentiments, stating that Wilbar’s legacy of providing high-quality products positions the company as an ideal partner. The investment aims to leverage Wilbar's existing strengths and scale its operations effectively, contributing to both companies' goals for growth and innovation.

Chris Dupré, another partner at StoneTree, pointed out the robust North American production footprint of Wilbar and its collection of leading brands in the aboveground pool sector. This advantageous position provides a solid foundation for pursuing market opportunities in both the U.S. and Canada. “We see significant potential for growth as we work together to provide world-class products and services to our customers,” Dupré remarked.

Industry Impact

The pool industry, especially aboveground pools, has seen consistent demand as more families look for backyard leisure options. This trend has only accelerated post-pandemic, as outdoor activities have garnered popularity. StoneTree's investment in Wilbar Group not only indicates confidence in the company's operations but also marks an important step for the private equity firm’s mission of transforming industrial businesses through investments in people and processes.

Both companies, guided by their shared vision of innovation and quality, are poised to initiate significant advancements in product offerings and customer service within the pool industry. The investment underscores StoneTree's commitment to nurturing partnerships that foster growth and excellence.

Future Outlook

The specifics of the investment deal were not disclosed, but there is strong anticipation regarding the strategic initiatives that will emerge from this collaboration. With expert advisors like Capstone Partners facilitating the transaction, both StoneTree and Wilbar Group are ready to navigate the evolving market landscape together. The collaboration is expected to not only solidify Wilbar's market position but also enhance StoneTree's portfolio in the industrial sector, driving success through shared values and long-term commitments.

Moving forward, both parties will focus on the operational and market strategies that will fortify Wilbar Group's established reputation while embracing new growth avenues as public interest in aboveground swimming solutions continues to rise.