H.I.G. Capital Recognized for Outstanding Deal of the Year in 2025
H.I.G. Capital, a prominent global alternative investment firm managing around $74 billion in assets, has recently been awarded the "2025 Small-Cap North America Deal of the Year" by PE Hub. This accolade recognizes H.I.G.'s successful exit from Koozie Group, a notable promotional products supplier, marking a significant achievement in its investment journey. The award celebrates exceptional buyouts that showcase substantial value creation, operational advancements, and sector leadership.
The honored transaction involved H.I.G. acquiring Koozie Group, a part of the non-core division of Bic, a French multinational corporation. The firm played a crucial role in transforming Koozie into an independent entity, allowing it to thrive in the competitive promotional products market. As a standalone platform, Koozie Group has become a leader in its field, largely due to the investment and strategic guidance provided by H.I.G.
During its tenure, H.I.G. focused on bolstering Koozie Group's competitive edge by enhancing operational efficiency and driving innovation. The company prioritized investments in product development, cutting-edge technology, and an exceptional customer experience. Additionally, Koozie Group executed four strategic acquisitions that broadened its market reach and diversified its product offerings.
Doug Berman, who oversees U.S. Private Equity at H.I.G., expressed pride in receiving recognition from PE Hub, stating, "This award underscores our commitment to fostering market leaders through strategic investments and operational enhancements. We are actively searching for similar opportunities to collaborate closely with management teams, aiming for growth and value creation."
Jonathan Fox, a Managing Director at H.I.G., along with Camilo Horvilleur, the Co-Head of the Small Cap and Growth Fund, emphasized the fruitful collaboration with Koozie Group's CEO Pierre Montaubin. They lauded the transformational initiatives identified during the initial analysis that were implemented throughout the investment period, which proved pivotal in navigating the COVID-related challenges.
Montaubin acknowledged the invaluable partnership with H.I.G., remarking, "Their support has significantly expedited our growth and allowed us to pursue opportunities more effectively than we could have independently. We sincerely appreciate their guidance throughout our transformation journey."
H.I.G. Capital continues to exemplify its successful 33-year history in investing within lower middle-market companies, embracing complexity and managing risk-reward dynamics adeptly. The firm’s Small Cap Growth Buyout strategy remains focused on acquiring control equity stakes in under-managed or high-potential North American businesses, promising a sustained approach to value-driven investments.
The criteria for PE Hub's Deal of the Year awards are rigorous, assessed by the publication's editorial team and a panel from the PEI Group. Key considerations include innovative strategies, timely execution, financial structuring, and the overall impact on the sector.
This latest accolade adds to H.I.G. Capital's portfolio of recognitions and underscores its dedication to operational excellence and value creation across its investment ventures. H.I.G. remains committed to exploring new opportunities while continuing to elevate the standards within the investment landscape.
Founded in 1993, H.I.G. has significantly impacted the global market by investing in over 400 companies worldwide, with its current portfolio exceeding 100 firms generating combined sales exceeding $53 billion. With their headquarters in Miami and various international offices, H.I.G. focuses on providing both debt and equity capital to mid-market companies, utilizing a flexible and operationally focused investment philosophy.
For further information about H.I.G. Capital and its endeavors, you can visit their official website at hig.com.
The honored transaction involved H.I.G. acquiring Koozie Group, a part of the non-core division of Bic, a French multinational corporation. The firm played a crucial role in transforming Koozie into an independent entity, allowing it to thrive in the competitive promotional products market. As a standalone platform, Koozie Group has become a leader in its field, largely due to the investment and strategic guidance provided by H.I.G.
During its tenure, H.I.G. focused on bolstering Koozie Group's competitive edge by enhancing operational efficiency and driving innovation. The company prioritized investments in product development, cutting-edge technology, and an exceptional customer experience. Additionally, Koozie Group executed four strategic acquisitions that broadened its market reach and diversified its product offerings.
Doug Berman, who oversees U.S. Private Equity at H.I.G., expressed pride in receiving recognition from PE Hub, stating, "This award underscores our commitment to fostering market leaders through strategic investments and operational enhancements. We are actively searching for similar opportunities to collaborate closely with management teams, aiming for growth and value creation."
Jonathan Fox, a Managing Director at H.I.G., along with Camilo Horvilleur, the Co-Head of the Small Cap and Growth Fund, emphasized the fruitful collaboration with Koozie Group's CEO Pierre Montaubin. They lauded the transformational initiatives identified during the initial analysis that were implemented throughout the investment period, which proved pivotal in navigating the COVID-related challenges.
Montaubin acknowledged the invaluable partnership with H.I.G., remarking, "Their support has significantly expedited our growth and allowed us to pursue opportunities more effectively than we could have independently. We sincerely appreciate their guidance throughout our transformation journey."
H.I.G. Capital continues to exemplify its successful 33-year history in investing within lower middle-market companies, embracing complexity and managing risk-reward dynamics adeptly. The firm’s Small Cap Growth Buyout strategy remains focused on acquiring control equity stakes in under-managed or high-potential North American businesses, promising a sustained approach to value-driven investments.
The criteria for PE Hub's Deal of the Year awards are rigorous, assessed by the publication's editorial team and a panel from the PEI Group. Key considerations include innovative strategies, timely execution, financial structuring, and the overall impact on the sector.
This latest accolade adds to H.I.G. Capital's portfolio of recognitions and underscores its dedication to operational excellence and value creation across its investment ventures. H.I.G. remains committed to exploring new opportunities while continuing to elevate the standards within the investment landscape.
Founded in 1993, H.I.G. has significantly impacted the global market by investing in over 400 companies worldwide, with its current portfolio exceeding 100 firms generating combined sales exceeding $53 billion. With their headquarters in Miami and various international offices, H.I.G. focuses on providing both debt and equity capital to mid-market companies, utilizing a flexible and operationally focused investment philosophy.
For further information about H.I.G. Capital and its endeavors, you can visit their official website at hig.com.
Topics Financial Services & Investing）
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