We are pleased to announce the sale of our client, Leading Edge Associates, Inc. and Leading Edge Aero Technologies, Inc (together, Leading Edge), to Central Garden & Pet (“Central”). The acquisition closed November 6, 2024

Located in Daytona Beach, Florida, Leading Edge is a manufacturer of large commercial drones used for mosquito/vector control, weed control, and precision farming. They are also a software developer for applications that serve the operations of their drones as well as asset management for municipalities and large landowners.

Based in Walnut Creek, California, Central is a market leader in the pet and garden industries. With over 40 years of experience, the company offers a diverse portfolio of more than 65 trusted brands, including Amdro®, Aqueon®, Cadet®, C and S®, Farnam®, Ferry Morse®, Four Paws®, Kaytee®, Nylabone®, and Pennington®. Employing approximately 6,700 team members primarily across North America, Central is dedicated to helping lawns grow greener, gardens bloom bigger, and pets live healthier.

“This is a perfect outcome for the two brothers who founded Leading Edge. Central will now be able to take their business to levels they never thought possible just a short time ago. I’m extremely excited to see where this goes, and it’s been a privilege to work with them,” said Jack Sluiter, Managing Director of M&A, Generational Group.

Ryan Binkley, CEO of Generational Group, added, “At Generational Group, we are proud to facilitate such impactful transactions.”

Generational Group Executive Managing Director, M&A, David Fergusson, and his team led by Managing Director, M&A, Jack Sluiter, with the support of Senior Vice President, M&A, Tristan Keeffe, successfully closed the deal. Executive Managing Director, Ed Weber, and Senior M&A Advisor, Dave Heymann, established the initial relationship with Leading Edge Associates, Inc.