Generational Equity Advises Artificial Turf Supply in its Sale to Blackford Capital

By Generational Equity

12/01/2022

Generational Equity, a leading mergers and acquisitions advisor for privately held businesses, is pleased to announce the sale of its client Artificial Turf Supply, LLC (“ATS”) to Blackford Capital (“Blackford”). The transaction closed in November 2022.

Located in Carlsbad, California, Artificial Turf Supply is a manufacturer, supplier and internet-based retailer of high-quality artificial turf and ancillary products in the U.S. The Company has developed a customized CRM system with SQL back-end, highly sophisticated proprietary operations, and advanced lead generation and marketing systems.

ATS represents an “Amazon-like” 3rd-party logistics solution using pay-per-use warehousing to provide scalable turn-key distribution on a national scale. Every aspect of the company’s processes and procedures have been meticulously designed, and a focus on profitability and continuous improvement to create a culture of efficiency.

Artificial Turf Supply’s President, Management Member and Owner David Barbera said, “Don Ho and his team at Generational have been terrific long-term partners for us, exceeding my expectations. Their expertise and guidance were instrumental in crafting the transaction with Blackford Capital. With an eye focused on growth, we are excited to work with Martin Stein and the Blackford leadership team to further expand our reach within the growing artificial turf market.”

Blackford Capital, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a private equity investment firm that acquires, manages, and builds lower middle market manufacturing, industrial, and distribution companies. Blackford believes that long-term value is created through operational effectiveness, business model innovation, and effective execution. A patient, long-term investor that understands it takes time, effort and resources to build companies with lasting value, Blackford has a long history of creating value for its investors and management teams, executing 34 acquisitions with more than $650 million in transaction value since its founding.

“We are excited to bring in ATS into our Patio Consolidation platform,” said Blackford Capital Founder and Managing Director Martin Stein. “David has built a brilliant and resilient business and we are honored to have him on board. With their addition to our family of companies we look to accelerate the entire platform’s reach by optimizing ATS’s already impressive marketing prowess and distribution network.”

Don Ho, Managing Director Mergers & Acquisitions with Generational Equity, was the lead dealmaker that successfully closed the transaction. Mr. Ho was supported by Executive Managing Director of M&A – Central Region,  Michael Goss, and  Vice President, M&A,  Jacob Mangalath. 

“I am honored to be able to represent Artificial Turf Supply in an M&A capacity,” said Mr. Ho. “David Barbera has built and implemented a proprietary, cutting-edge operational and marketing technology/IP that truly showcases both his technical expertise and leadership talent.”

“We are delighted that Blackford Capital, one of the most sophisticated and innovative lower middle-market private equity firms in North America, has chosen to partner with David Barbera and the team at ATS. It was an honor to work with Martin Stein and his team. Their leadership and resources will enable ATS to expand its reach in the growing artificial turf and ancillary products market more quickly throughout the country.” 

Mr. Ho added, “With the additional capital and exceptional strategic resources Blackford brings, David and the ATS team are well positioned to accelerate growth, better serve customers and offer more attractive opportunities and benefits for its employees. We’re excited about ATS’ bright future as part of Blackford’s Patio Consolidation platform.”

David Barbera will continue as President of Artificial Turf Supply post-closing and will become an Operating Partner at Blackford Capital.