We specialize in complexity — investing where others hesitate

Special Situations

Every business has a story. Saothair invests at inflection points, whether in  businesses in need of an operational transformation, or healthy businesses seeking a financial partner to support their next phase of growth

Transactional Expertise

The ability to structure and close deals under time-sensitive, complex conditions.

Operational Focus

Transforming businesses from within by building a culture of Continuous Improvement.

Partnership Orientation

Working alongside management, employees, lenders, and stakeholders to support long-term success.

Our Investment Approach

We create value by fostering a culture of Continuous Improvement throughout our businesses. Utilizing data-driven tools, we work with our portfolio company teams to address process challenges and strive to create sustainable improvement in safety, quality, customer service, productivity, and waste reduction.

Constructive Approach

We work in partnership with each of the key stakeholders invested in the long-term success of the business. The workforce, senior management, lenders, customers, suppliers, local officials – each have a vested interest in seeing the business thrive, and each is enrolled in the process of ensuring the business is on strong footing for a successful future.

Transactional Expertise

We are capable of investing in and acquiring businesses through a range of challenging situations, including corporate carve-outs, financial restructurings, or family-owned businesses looking for a successful transition. We understand that different circumstances require a flexibility in transactional approach, and we are capable of meeting the needs of a business with the appropriate transactional model.  We can also show flexibility with selling stakeholders, allowing them to share in the value created under new ownership.

Investment Discipline

We invest in businesses we understand. We focus exclusively on lower-middle market manufacturing and industrial businesses with their primary operations in North America, though satellite operations or end-markets may be overseas.

Good business as a force for positive impact
We believe that long-term value creation and responsible business practices can and should align.
When we are successful, typically hundreds or thousands of jobs are sustained, and a critical sector of the economy is stronger as a result.
When a business prioritizes workforce safety and satisfaction, such a culture accrues to the bottom line in the form of less lost time accidents and employee turnover and a well-trained and experienced workforce that is motivated to share in its success.
When a business focuses on driving operational efficiencies in the form of scrap, energy and other utility reduction, not only do such actions drive cost savings, but they also make for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly partner to the communities in which it operates.
We believe that value creation rarely is long-lasting unless a business prioritizes the interests of its workforce and local community.

Transaction Types

Saothair specializes in executing complex transactions across a range of industries, leveraging our deep industry knowledge and operational expertise to drive value creation for our portfolio companies.

[01]

Founder-led & Other Privately Owned Opportunities

Generational change or the decision to sell a family business can be complex and emotional. Saothair approaches these situations with respect for legacy, ensuring a smooth transition while creating opportunities for future growth and employee stability.

[02]

Corporate Carve-outs & Divestitures

Large corporations often divest non-core or underperforming divisions that still hold significant potential. We specialize in separating these businesses, providing the resources and operational expertise to stand them up independently and unlock their full value.

[03]

Operational & Financial Turnarounds

Whether it’s an underperforming business in a challenged sector, a company requiring a major operational turnaround, or a uniquely complicated transaction, Saothair applies its broad transactional experience and operational focus to transform challenging situations into lasting value.

[04]

Chapter 11 and Out-of-Court Restructurings

We have the experience and discipline to invest in businesses navigating the complexities of Chapter 11. Our ability to move quickly and provide certainty allows companies to emerge stronger, preserving jobs and value for various stakeholders, and creating a foundation for long-term success.

Sector Focus & Operational Capabilities

Our expertise lies at the intersection of manufacturing, industrial processes, and operational transformation.

Aerospace & Defense

Assembly

Automotive & Truck

Building Products

Chemicals

Construction Equipment

Consumer Products

Food & Beverage

Paper, Packaging & Printing

Plastics

Investment Criteria

We seek new opportunities for control equity investments in lower middle market manufacturing and industrial businesses across North America, including those facing urgent operational or financial challenges.

Majority Control Equity
Investment Type

Positive or 
Negative
EBITDA

$15–50M
Investment Size

$50–500M
Revenue

N. America
Headquarters

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