Valesco Reels in Seventh Investment Fund II With T-H Marine Supplies
The Transaction Was a Majority Buyout of T-H Marine Supplies, Inc., a Leader in the Recreational Marine, Boating, and Fishing Accessories Market
Apr 30, 2019
On April 30, 2019, Valesco closed its seventh investment out of Valesco Fund II. The transaction was a majority buyout of T-H Marine Supplies, Inc., a leader in the recreational marine, boating, and fishing accessories market. T-H Marine was founded in 1975 and is headquartered in Huntsville, AL.
T-H Marine provides parts to virtually every recreational boat platform produced in the United States – including bass boats, offshore fishing boats, pontoon boats, ski boats and runabouts. The company operates in two primary sales channels: OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and Aftermarket (distributors, e-commerce, big box and specialty retail, direct sales and dealers). Since its founding, T-H Marine has become a recognized brand in its industry with over 20 brands and 48 patents. Valesco’s investment supports a recapitalization of the existing ownership group and will support the continued growth of T-H Marine’s successful legacy business while also expanding its current e-commerce footprint. As a Tier 1 supplier in the industry, T-H Marine is well positioned to continue its successful growth strategy.
Jeff Huntley Sr. bought his father’s business in 1994 and has set out to build an industry leader in the marine accessories market. Huntley is excited for the next stage of the business, stating “Our third generation business is growing very rapidly, and we believe Valesco’s expertise and capital can help us further accelerate that growth and strengthen our fundamentals. We love their philosophy of Commitment Beyond Capital and empowerment of management teams. They truly get it, fit with our culture and will be a partner of great integrity and trust.” Jeff will remain as CEO and will lead the company alongside his son, Jeff Huntley Jr. (VP of Operations) and Greg Buie (VP of Sales).
Valesco continues to seek investment opportunities to provide equity and subordinated debt for control buyout, recapitalization, minority, management buyout and mezzanine situations out of Valesco Fund II. T-H Marine is a great example of relationship, partnership and creativity to find the best possible outcome for the business, the founding shareholders and Valesco. The company is poised for continued success and we could not be more excited to add T-H Marine to our growing portfolio.