One Equity Partners Announces Successful Acquisition Exit
One Equity Partners (“OEP”), a middle market private equity firm known for its strategic investments, has successfully completed the sale of its portfolio company, W.W. Williams. This notable transaction emphasizes OEP's commitment to enhancing value through transformative business strategies, further showcasing their industry expertise.
About W.W. Williams
Founded in 1912 and based in Columbus, Ohio, W.W. Williams is a leading aftermarket service and parts provider. The Company delivers a diverse range of solutions tailored for both on-highway and off-highway diesel engines, transmissions, and transportation refrigeration. Additionally, W.W. Williams specializes in providing comprehensive bumper-to-bumper service for medium and heavy-duty trucks. Their services extend to offering packaged generators and essential equipment for standby and auxiliary power applications that support critical environments such as data centers and hospitals.
Growth Under OEP's Ownership
During the tenure of OEP's ownership, W.W. Williams experienced substantial growth, nearly tripling its EBITDA. This remarkable success can be attributed to targeted investments in enhancing service capabilities and bolstering the workforce by adding over 100 professionals. These strategic moves were aimed at expanding the mobile service and fleet maintenance departments, thereby improving customer support services.
Strategic Acquisitions for Market Expansion
In addition to organic growth strategies, W.W. Williams made significant strides in market expansion by executing two major transformational acquisitions and four additional smaller acquisitions. These strategic efforts not only broadened the Company’s geographic presence but also increased its operational footprint and service capabilities, positioning it favorably for future growth under new ownership.
Value Creation Strategy by OEP
Jamie Koven, a Partner at One Equity Partners, noted, “OEP’s investment in W.W. Williams exemplifies our ongoing commitment to value creation through transformational combinations.” He emphasized the importance of organic and inorganic growth strategies facilitated by strategic acquisitions and operational initiatives in collaboration with the management team.
Future Outlook for W.W. Williams
The insights shared by Matt Hughes, another Partner at One Equity Partners, highlighted the advantages gained from their strategic efforts. He stated, “The combination of our strategic initiatives ultimately expanded W.W. Williams’ geographic reach, footprint density and service capabilities.” This combination not only equips the Company for sustained progress but also solidifies its market position as they transition to new ownership.
About One Equity Partners
One Equity Partners (OEP) is a highly regarded middle market private equity firm with a focus on the industrial, healthcare, and technology sectors in North America and Europe. With a robust investment approach and a seasoned team, OEP aims to build market-leading companies through transformative business combinations. Since its establishment in 2001 and subsequent spin-out from JP Morgan in 2015, the firm has successfully completed over 400 transactions worldwide. They maintain offices in key locations including New York, Chicago, Frankfurt, and Amsterdam.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is One Equity Partners?
One Equity Partners is a middle market private equity firm focusing on transforming businesses through strategic investments.
What is the significance of the sale of W.W. Williams?
The successful sale of W.W. Williams underlines OEP's commitment to value creation through strategic growth and acquisitions.
How did W.W. Williams grow during OEP's ownership?
W.W. Williams nearly tripled its EBITDA and expanded its workforce significantly, enhancing its service capabilities.
What industries does One Equity Partners focus on?
OEP primarily focuses on the industrial, healthcare, and technology sectors in North America and Europe.
What future plans might W.W. Williams have following the sale?
With its expanded geographic reach and service capabilities, W.W. Williams is poised for continued growth under new ownership.
