Project Pinnacle
After more than two decades of steady growth, the founders of a nationally recognized garment transfer manufacturer began thinking about the future of the company they had built.
Serving apparel decorators, promotional product distributors, and brands across the United States, the business had developed a strong reputation for speed, print quality, and reliability in the growing screen-printed and direct-to-film (DTF) transfer market.
The founders were not simply looking for the highest bidder. They wanted a buyer who would respect the culture of the business, protect employees, and invest in long-term growth.
True North Mergers & Acquisitions guided the company through a targeted sale process that generated strong interest from financial buyers and ultimately resulted in eight offers and a winning bid at a 5x multiple.
While the founders wanted to maximize value, they were equally focused on finding a buyer who would respect what had been built.
True North began by working closely with ownership to position the company for market. This included preparing a clear investment narrative that highlighted the company’s reputation, operational discipline, and strong customer relationships.
True North conducted a highly targeted and confidential marketing process. The process included:
• Outreach to more than 100 prospective buyers
• Tailored messaging for both financial and strategic investors
• Competitive tension that encouraged multiple bids
Ultimately, eight offers were submitted, reflecting a range of values and deal structures.
True North guided the founders through the final stages of the transaction, including buyer evaluation, negotiations, and due diligence.
Throughout the process, the team helped balance multiple priorities — valuation, certainty of close, and selecting the right long-term owner for the business.
The selected buyer, a private equity firm, stood out for its strong alignment with the founders’ priorities.
Key factors included:
- A clear vision for investing in the company’s next stage of growth
- Respect for the company’s brand, people, and operating philosophy
- A straightforward transaction structure and certainty of close
- Leadership continuity through the appointment of an experienced CEO
The buyer took the time to understand the business and the founders’ story, treating the company as something to grow and steward — not simply acquire.
In the end, the True North Mergers & Acquisitions team helped the founders achieve a transaction that balanced value, certainty, and legacy.
The result included:
- A full exit for the founders
- A smooth transition plan that respected employees and customers
- A buyer committed to investing in technology, expanded product lines, and long-term growth
The outcome allowed the founders to step away with confidence, knowing the company they built would continue to grow under new ownership and leadership.
