Our team's track record was established at Code Hennessy & Simmons LLC (CHS), as well as other leading distribution companies and private investment firms.  We have been fortunate to help foster profitable growth at the companies highlighted below:

The Hillman Companies, Inc.

Hillman was a leading distributor of fasteners, key blanks, signage and other small hardware components and a leading manufacturer of key making equipment. The company operated 10 locations throughout the U.S., reported sales of approximately $325 million, and enjoyed strong relationships with it's key customers across the retail channel, including home centers, hardware stores and mass merchants.

Investment History:  While at CHS, the principals of Ellipse Capital led the purchase of Hillman from its parent, Allied Capital, in 2004. Between 2004 and 2010, we worked closely with the management team of Hillman to upgrade the company's operations, complete two strategic add-on acquisitions and further enhance customer relationships.

Outcome: In 2010, Hillman was successfully sold to another private investment firm.

Beacon Roofing Supply, Inc.

Beacon Roofing Supply was a leading regional distributor of residential and commercial roofing materials and related supplies.  The company originally operated in 11 locations in New England, reported sales of approximately $70 million and was considered to be the premier roofing distributor in that market area.

Investment History:  While at CHS, the principals of Ellipse Capital led the recapitalization of Beacon with the majority owner and CEO, Andrew Logie, in 1997.  Between 1997 and 2004, we worked with the Mr. Logie and management team of Beacon to complete 10 acquisitions of other leading regional roofing distributors in the eastern half of the U.S. and Canada.  Our team actively helped Beacon to identify, negotiate, finance and close these add-on acquisitions.  In addition, we worked with the CEO to identify and recruit his successor and other key management employees.

Outcome: In 2004, Beacon completed a successful IPO, providing the company with additional capital to support its growth plan. As a public company, Beacon has completed another six add-on acquisitions.  In 2007, Beacon reported sales of approximately $1.7 billion.

Houston Wire & Cable Company

Houston Wire & Cable was a leading distributor of specialty wire and cable products.  The company operated through nine locations located throughout the U.S., reported sales of approximately $125 million, and enjoyed strong relationships with its key customers and suppliers.

Investment History: While at CHS, the principals of Ellipse Capital led the purchase of Houston Wire from its corporate parent, Alltel, in 1997.  Shortly after the acquisition, we recruited a new CEO, Charles Sorrentino, to help drive growth at HWC.  Between 1997 and 2006, we worked with Mr. Sorrentino and the management team of HWC to complete the acquisition of its direct competitor, and to invest in new products, customers and distribution channels. 

Outcome:  In 2006, Houston Wire & Cable completed a successful IPO, providing the company with additional capital to support its growth plan.  As a public company, HWC has continued to invest in new products, customers and market channels to enhance its growth.  In 2007, HWC reported sales of approximately $325 million.

United Central Industrial Supply

United Central Industrial Supply was a leading distributor of products and supplies to the underground coal mining industry.  The company operated through nine locations located in the Eastern U.S., reported sales of approximately $100 million, and enjoyed strong relationships with its key customers and suppliers.

Investment History: While at CHS, the principals of Ellipse Capital led the purchase of United Central from its corporate parent, The United Company, in 1999.  Between 1999 and 2004, we worked closely with the management team of United Central to divest an underperforming, non-core division, complete a strategic add-on acquisition and negotiate exclusive rights to key product lines. 

Outcome: In 2004, United Central was successfully sold to another private investment firm.