Insider Brief
- Branford Castle Partners has acquired Hoffman Engineering to strengthen its position in aerospace and defense.
- The deal was completed through an agreement with Trident Maritime Systems, the previous owner.
- While the financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed, the move marks Branford Castle’s sixth platform investment under its Fund II, which closed in 2021.
Branford Castle Partners, a private equity firm with a North American focus, announced it has acquired Hoffman Engineering, a prominent provider of situational awareness solutions for critical aerospace and defense applications. The deal was completed through an agreement with Trident Maritime Systems, the previous owner. While the financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed, the move marks Branford Castle’s sixth platform investment under its Fund II, which closed in 2021.
Hoffman Engineering, based in Stamford, Connecticut, has built a strong reputation since its founding in 1955. The company specializes in night vision test equipment, night vision imaging lighting systems, and LED specialty lighting for commercial aviation. Its products serve the U.S. military, major aerospace and defense original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), and commercial airlines. CEO Ron Hayward and the current management team will continue to lead Hoffman under the new ownership.
Branford Castle has been actively reshaping its portfolio, recently completing successful exits from investments like Clean Solutions Group and Earthlite Massage Tables. With Hoffman’s acquisition, Branford Castle aims to capitalize on growing demand in the aerospace and defense sectors. Ceon Francis, Managing Director at Branford Castle, emphasized the strategic fit, stating, “We see attractive opportunities in this market as the aerospace and defense industry continues to expand, creating increased demand for the most advanced, mission-critical products available.”
Hoffman’s existing leadership views the acquisition as a chance to accelerate growth. Ron Hayward expressed gratitude for Trident’s support and enthusiasm about the partnership with Branford Castle, highlighting their shared vision for continued innovation and customer focus. The transaction was supported by financial partners O2 Sponsor Finance, providing senior debt, and Brookside Capital Partners, offering mezzanine financing.
The acquisition showcases Branford Castle’s strategy of partnering with companies that hold strong market positions and proprietary capabilities, positioning Hoffman Engineering as a solid growth platform in the evolving aerospace and defense landscape. Branford Castle received advisory support from Akerman LLP for legal counsel and RSM for accounting and tax services, while Hoffman was advised by Philpott Ball & Werner, LLC.
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