MES Completes Divestiture of PFAS-Related Liabilities to Focus on Safety Equipment
MES Completes Transaction to Divest PFAS-Related Liabilities
In a significant move aimed at refocusing its operational strategy, MES Intermediate, Inc. announced the completion of a permanent divestiture of non-operating subsidiaries, specifically those like Municipal Emergency Services, LLC, that have been burdened with legacy product liability claims, particularly involving per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This strategic transaction, finalized on January 2, 2026, was executed with Mustang ES Holdings, LLC, a firm specializing in third-party liability management.
According to MES, the decision to divest these subsidiaries was taken to enhance the company's focus on its core mission of providing critical safety equipment to at-risk workers. Marvin Riley, the CEO of MES, emphasized that this decision was crucial for the organization as it seeks to safeguard those exposed to hazardous work environments, such as firefighters and first responders. By transferring the responsibility for PFAS-related claims to Mustang, MES can now prioritize its operational goals without the distractions of ongoing legal liabilities stemming from past products.
The transaction allows Mustang to take over the management and resolution of the alleged PFAS issues, including overseeing associated insurance assets. This shift not only streamlines MES's focus on delivering quality gear for those in dangerous professions but also enables a more organized approach to handling the complex legacy matters tied to PFAS claims.
This divestiture underscores MES's commitment to ensure that issues related to environmental safety and corporate liability are addressed decisively. With a growing scrutiny on PFAS and its impacts on public health, the decision reflects a proactive stance where the company can more effectively concentrate on its core competencies in public safety and emergency response solutions. The PFAS liability, which has been a contentious issue in many industries, is now being handled by specialists who are better equipped to manage such claims, ensuring that MES can continue to innovate in its market without the weight of these historical claims.
Since its establishment in 2001, MES has been at the forefront of providing necessary equipment and services to high-risk professions, catering to the needs of firefighters, law enforcement, and various safety personnel across the nation. By continuously evolving its strategies, the company positions itself not only as a supplier of safety solutions but also as a responsible entity addressing its past commitments in an efficient manner.
Overall, the transaction with Mustang marks a critical turning point for MES, enabling the organization to move forward by concentrating on protecting lives rather than managing legacy issues. With this development, MES is poised to further strengthen its service offerings and enhance its reputation as a leader in safety equipment.
About MES
MES has been dedicated to protecting those who work in high-risk environments since its inception. Their expansive range of products and services is designed to meet varying safety standards and needs, thanks to a robust network of service centers and sales professionals.
About Mustang ES Holdings, LLC
Mustang ES Holdings specializes in the acquisition and management of legacy corporate liabilities and related insurance assets, ensuring businesses can operate without the burden of past claims.
In conclusion, as the landscape of corporate liability management evolves, MES's proactive divestiture is an exemplary model for other companies facing similar challenges, demonstrating the importance of strategic foresight in today’s business environment.