Wayne-based Guardian Capital Partners has closed its fourth fund, marking its largest raise by far since the firm launched in 2008, at $441 million, writes Jeff Blumenthal for the Philadelphia Business Journal.
Co-founders of the leveraged buyout private equity investor focused on the lower end of the middle market, Peter Haabestad and Scott Evans, believe Guardian Capital Partners Fund IV positions the firm to deploy capital more quickly than ever amid strong demand.
Guardian targets lower middle market companies for leveraged buyout investments, concentrating on North American industrial technology, digital infrastructure, food and beverage manufacturing, and non-discretionary services sectors.
Investments typically range from $50 million to $60 million, targeting companies with $80 million to $100 million in revenue and $12 million to $15 million in earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization.
Haabestad noted that the company generally holds its stake for five years, though this may evolve in the near term.
“I think the pace of business is accelerating, so I wouldn’t be surprised if five years sort of becomes four years – and possibly even less – as we leverage technology and AI and everything we know how to do here,” he said.
Read more about Guardian Capital Partners raising money for its fourth fund in the Philadelphia Business Journal.
______
