#United States #New York #Tiger Infrastructure #ELM Utility Services #Public Utility Locating

Tiger Infrastructure's Strategic Move

In a significant development within the infrastructure sector, Tiger Infrastructure Partners has officially announced a transformative investment in ELM Utility Services, a prominent provider of outsourced public utility locating solutions in the United States. This strategic investment aims to bolster ELM's capabilities and expand its reach within the essential utility locating market.

Understanding the Need for Utility Locating

As construction activities increase across the United States, ensuring the accurate identification and marking of underground utility infrastructure has never been more critical. Statutory requirements mandate utilities to locate and mark their assets before any excavation to prevent damage to these lines and to avoid potentially dangerous situations. Utilities typically choose to outsource this crucial function, making the role of companies like ELM indispensable.

ELM Utility Services: A Market Leader

ELM Utility Services has established itself as a leader in the utility locating space, boasting a dedicated fleet of over 1,400 vehicles that serve more than 60 utilities across 13 states in the western and central regions of the U.S. The company has built a solid reputation for its exceptional service, characterized by high accuracy and timely delivery. Emil Henry, the Founder, CEO, and CIO of Tiger Infrastructure Partners, expressed confidence in ELM's market presence: "ELM is a market leader with a reputation for operational excellence and a critical role in safeguarding our nation's infrastructure."

What the Investment Entails

The investment from Tiger Infrastructure Partners is expected to provide ELM with the growth capital necessary to expand its operations on a national scale. With expanding underground utility infrastructure, utilities are increasingly seeking better service outcomes from their locating partners. This growth capital will allow ELM to enhance its operational capabilities and continue innovating in its service offerings.

Lee Graves, founder and long-time owner of ELM, emphasized the significance of the investment, stating that Tiger Infrastructure's expertise would facilitate the expansion of ELM's diverse asset base while optimizing its capital structure and enhancing its workforce. Graves retains a significant equity stake in the company, underscoring his continued commitment to the firm's mission.

Future Growth and Leadership

Management continuity is a key component of ELM's growth strategy. Both CEO Jim Bourazak and President Harley Hartman are set to remain at the helm, ensuring that the company continues on its trajectory of service excellence that has characterized its operations for the past 25 years.

About Tiger Infrastructure Partners

Tiger Infrastructure Partners is recognized as an innovative private equity firm, focusing on providing transformational growth capital to mid-market infrastructure companies. With a strategic emphasis on digital infrastructure, energy transitions, and transportation sectors, they are strategically positioned to capitalize on demand for new infrastructure in North America and Europe.

About ELM Utility Services

ELM Utility Services stands as an exemplary model in the field of outsourced utility locating services, dedicated to protecting underground infrastructure and ensuring reliable service for its clients. The company's core mission includes safeguarding public safety by preventing damage to critical utility systems, aligning with societal needs and regulatory requirements.

In conclusion, Tiger Infrastructure Partners’ investment in ELM Utility Services marks a pivotal point for both companies. This investment not only signifies confidence in ELM's operational excellence but also points toward a promising future in the infrastructure landscape, where the demand for safe and efficient utility locating services continues to grow.