Munich, Germany — The Riverside Company, the global private equity firm focused on middle-market growth companies, has sold its portfolio company REPA to PT Holdings, a U.S. distributor of restaurant repair and replacement parts, which is owned by private equity firm Berkshire Partners.
Riverside had acquired a stake in REPA in October 2016, a leading spare parts distributor for professional kitchens and for coffee and vending machines, today with over 700 employees in 13 international locations. — During his holding period, Riverside built REPA into a European market leader with a growing international presence. In addition to continuous organic growth, REPA was able to make six acquisitions in Italy, Spain, Great Britain, Austria and Australia and successfully integrate them into the Group.
Riverside partner Peter Schaberger was responsible for the investment in REPA for Riverside Europe and says: “I am proud of our long and successful partnership with the REPA team. In addition to implementing a pan-European acquisition strategy, establishing new product categories and strengthening OEM partnerships, we have continuously worked to professionalize the organization, expand warehouse capacity, automate processes and lay the groundwork for a group-wide implementation of an ERP system.”
In addition, REPA continued to expand its presence in Europe while further improving its excellent customer service, fast delivery times and regional coverage. Riverside drove REPA’s strategic evolution from an independent specialized distributor at the time of acquisition, to a reliable and holistic outsourcing partner for the aftermarket business of manufacturers around the world.
“Once again, we are demonstrating our ability to professionalize and internationalize leading mid-market companies through organic as well as inorganic growth initiatives,” added Karsten Langer, Managing Partner of Riverside Europe.
“We thank Riverside for the excellent cooperation over the past five years. This transaction is the next logical step in REPA’s evolution and is in line with our own growth aspirations. We have always expanded our portfolio of parts and now, with PT Holdings, we are even better positioned to provide our customers with outstanding service in all aspects of spare parts,” said Alexander Wiegand, CEO of REPA.
In addition to Peter Schaberger, Riverside’s investment in REPA Group was managed by Principal Tillmann Immisch, Associate Nicola Tomaschko and Senior Operating Partner Fabio Pesiri.
About Riverside Company
The Riverside Company is a global private equity firm focused on investments in middle-market growth companies valued at up to $400 million. Since its founding in 1988, Riverside has made over 800 investments. Riverside’s international private equity and structured capital portfolios include over 140 companies. Riverside Europe is an integral part of the company’s global network and has been investing in Europe since 1989. Riverside believes this global presence provides exceptional insight into local conditions, culture and business practices, making the Riverside team better investors and business partners. www.riversidecompany.com
REPA — The Spare Parts Group
REPA is a leading distributor of spare parts for professional kitchens and for coffee and vending machines in Europe. We offer the largest selection of high quality spare parts and the best service. With over 700 employees at 13 international locations and several automated warehouses, we can deliver all spare parts quickly and efficiently. Ordered today, delivered tomorrow. The REPA Group includes LF (Italy), GEV (Germany), EPGC (France), Atel (Italy) and CCS (UK). www.repagroup.com