#USA #LDR Partners #Load Controls #ICS #Sturbridge

LDR Partners LP Acquires Load Controls Inc.

LDR Partners LP ("LDR"), a prominent player in the private equity space, has recently completed the acquisition of Load Controls Inc., a leading American enterprise specializing in motor power sensors and pump protection devices. This strategic move, announced on May 20, 2025, marks a significant milestone in LDR's efforts to build a robust industrial control framework under its platform, Industrial Control Solutions ("ICS"). The acquisition, finalized on May 14, 2025, was backed by LDR’s Growth Partners Fund I LP and its financial collaborator, Advantage Capital.

Load Controls, founded in 1984 and located in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, has built a formidable reputation for manufacturing high-quality solutions that safeguard essential industrial equipment. The company is particularly known for its flagship product, the PMP-25 pump load controller, designed to prevent pump failures due to issues like dry running and cavitation. This controller provides real-time monitoring and features automatic shutdown functionality, which makes it suitable for a wide array of industrial applications.

Strategic Fit for ICS

Matt Powers, CEO of Industrial Control Solutions, expressed enthusiasm about integrating Load Controls into the ICS family. He stated, "Their strong brand reputation, niche market position, and deep connections within vital U.S. markets, especially in pump protection, position them as a natural addition to our expanding portfolio. We see immense potential for Load Controls to grow through OEM integrations and global distribution, alongside ongoing product innovation."

As Load Controls joins forces with other established brands like Whitman Controls and Thomas Products under the ICS umbrella, the integration is set to create a powerful consortium focused on advancing system solutions in controls and instrumentation. The consolidation aims to not only enhance product offerings but also improve service delivery and operational efficiency across the sectors they serve.

Commitment to Innovation

The acquisition is poised to enable Load Controls to tap into a broader customer base while enhancing its existing capabilities. Mike McClurg, the second-generation owner and former CEO of Load Controls, noted the company's commitment to maintaining its legacy while exploring new avenues for growth in partnership with LDR and ICS. He emphasized the ongoing collaboration with Powers to facilitate a seamless transition, highlighting a focus on developing innovative products to meet emerging market demands.

Load Controls intends to augment its collaborations with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and expand its distribution network internationally. The company aims to elevate its portfolio of efficiency-monitoring solutions, aligning with the increasing demand for dependable and energy-efficient pumping systems across diverse fields like HVAC, chemical processing, and wastewater management.

ICS's Vision and Growth Strategy

ICS has been on a trajectory of growth, recognizing the importance of monitoring and controlling critical inputs to enhance process efficiency. By leveraging its extensive 100-year experience in the instrumentation industry, ICS aims to create value through enhanced market expansion, advanced product development, and unrivaled customer service. The firm prioritizes its role as a trusted partner to utilities, industrial facilities, and OEMs globally, focusing on helping clients achieve operational excellence while minimizing downtime through automated preventative maintenance.

About Load Controls and ICS

Load Controls stands as a leading American designer and manufacturer in the field of motor power sensors and pump protection controls, known for its strong foothold among top chemical processors and pharmaceutical companies worldwide. Its ISO 9001-certified facility in Sturbridge underscores its commitment to quality production practices.

Industrial Control Solutions, based in Bristol, Connecticut, is committed to integrating top-tier brands in controls and instrumentation. With its robust portfolio, ICS serves critical markets while continuously seeking ways to advance its operational and product capabilities.

As both companies embark on this exciting new chapter together, the anticipated synergies are likely to bring forth significant advancements in the industrial controls sector, delivering enhanced efficiency and reliability for their customers across the globe.

Looking Forward

The landscape of industrial controls continues to evolve, and through this acquisition, LDR and ICS are poised to position themselves at the forefront of innovative solutions. This partnership keeps pace with the changing dynamics of automation and equipment protection, affirming their commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable products to industry leaders and ensuring they meet the modern demands of efficiency and sustainability.