Acquisition Boosts Fleet to 46 Vessels Operating Across 7 States
Mackinac Island, MI – Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies), a US-based family-owned private equity firm, announced today the acquisition of Mackinac Island Ferry Company, a ferry boat company serving Mackinac Island in Michigan known for its Hydro-Jet® Ferry fleet. This acquisition enhances Hoffmann Marine’s portfolio, expanding their U.S. fleet to 46 vessels across seven states.
With this expansion, HF Companies now owns more than 116 parcels of land, including docks in Mackinaw City, Mackinac Island, and St. Ignace, 51 buildings and 6500 parking spaces. This makes the company the largest owner of real estate parcels in the area and employer to 500 people in the Mackinac area. The acquisition follows the company’s recent “Sip n’ Sail” purchase in May 2024, further enhancing its lucrative portfolio in the Michigan area, which includes Shepler’s Ferry, St. Ignace News and the Mackinac Island Town Crier.
Jenny Gezella, President of Hoffmann Marine, shared, “We are thrilled to acquire the Mackinac Island Ferry Company, further expanding our presence in the Mackinac community and marine industry. Our commitment to providing first-class, efficient transportation remains steadfast, and we look forward to continuing to serve both residents and visitors to this special island.”
“To ensure a seamless transition, Jenny will be on the island this season, ensuring guests continue to enjoy exceptional trips and to drive new business,” stated Greg Hoffmann, Co-CEO of Hoffmann Family of Companies. “In addition to overseeing a local fleet of 24 boats, Jenny remains committed to maintaining high standards across all operations.”
In 2022, Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry Company rebranded as the Mackinac Island Ferry Company to consolidate its brand assets, including the Star Line Mackinac Island Hydro-Jet® Ferry fleet from the 1970s, the Arnold Line Ferry fleet operational since 1878 and the Mackinac Marine Services (MMS) shipyard established in 2019.
“Joining the Hoffmann Family of Companies heralds a new era for Mackinac Island Ferry Company,” said Jerry Fetty, CEO of Mackinac Island Ferry Company. “Our diverse fleet, including Hydro-Jet ferries, catamarans, classic ferries and pirate ship, will complement their marine division while maintaining our unique identity. We are optimistic about the future, dedicated to maintaining our high standards of service, contributing to the thriving Mackinac Island community and continuing to invest in our future.”
To learn more about Mackinac Island Ferry Company, visit www.mackinacferry.com. For more information about Hoffmann Marine please visit hfcompanies.com/companies.
About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 100 global brands, and employs 11,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Aviation, Agriculture, Financial Services, Hospitality, Business & Professional Services, Industrial, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing, Real Estate and Transportation.
About Mackinac Island Ferry Company:
Formally Star Line Mackinac Island Hydro-Jet® Ferry, The Mackinac Island Ferry Company rebranded in 2022 to consolidate its diverse suite of brand assets, including the Star Line Mackinac Island Hydro-Jet® Ferry fleet, which began in the 1970s, the esteemed Arnold Line Ferry fleet, operational since 1878, and the Mackinac Marine Services (MMS) shipyard, founded in 2019. These valuable assets now come together seamlessly under the Mackinac Island Ferry Company banner, amplifying its brand synergy. Our company boasts a rich heritage dating back to 1878, with the Arnold Line as our most enduring asset. For more information, visit www.mackinacferry.com
For media inquiries, please contact:
Jessica Carruth
Director, Communications & PR
[email protected]
Expanding the HF Companies Transportation Portfolio with an Award-Winning Partner “Committed to Perfection”
Sonoma County, CA (April 30, 2024)—The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies) has successfully acquired Pure Luxury Transportation, a premier luxury transportation provider in Sonoma County, California. This strategic move further solidifies HF Companies’ position as a dominant player in the transportation industry.
Pure Luxury is renowned for its impeccable service and commitment to excellence and has been serving discerning clients in the Napa, Sonoma, San Francisco, and Northern Bay Area regions since 1991. With a fleet of over 90 vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, sprinter vans, mini-buses, and motor coaches, Pure Luxury has consistently delivered unparalleled experiences to its clientele.
“We are thrilled to welcome Pure Luxury Transportation into the Hoffmann family,” said Tamir Rankow, Director, Hoffmann Family of Companies. “Their reputation for excellence aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering exceptional service across all our business ventures. As one of the original owners of Pure Luxury, we are very excited about this joint venture with Jennifer Buffo and her team”.
In addition to Pure Luxury’s core business, in 2023, Pure Luxury Transportation was named one of the 10 best wine tour companies in the United States by USA Today’s 10Best readers. The company was also named to The Press Democrat’s Best Of Sonoma County 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards in the Limo/Transportation category.
“Joining forces with the Hoffmann Family of Companies represents an exciting chapter for Pure Luxury,” said Jennifer Buffo, CEO, Pure Luxury Transportation. “We look forward to leveraging their expertise and resources to enhance our offerings and elevate the luxury transportation experience for our valued clients.”
About Hoffmann Family of Companies
The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies) is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 100 national brands, and employs 9,000 global employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 250 locations around the world. The HF Companies’ verticals include Aviation, Agriculture, Financial Services, Hospitality, Business & Professional Services, Industrial, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing, Real Estate and Transportation.
About Pure Luxury Transportation:
Pure Luxury Transportation has been a trusted name in luxury ground transportation since 1991. With a focus on wine tours, corporate travel, weddings, and special events, Pure Luxury has consistently delivered exceptional service to its clients, earning accolades and recognition within the industry. Learn more at pureluxury.com.
Media Contact
Jessica Carruth
Director, Communications & PR
[email protected]
The family-owned investment firm looks to support the Illinois-based dairy and fast food company in keeping its family heritage alive
WINNETKA, Ill. (April 23, 2024) – The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HFOC), through its investment arm, Osprey Capital LLC, announced it has entered discussions with various stakeholders to acquire all of the assets of Oberweis Dairy, a legacy, family-owned dairy company based in Illinois, which comes on the heels of Oberweis filing for bankruptcy. The team at Osprey Capital LLC will lead the acquisition.
HFOC understands there may be a stalking horse bidder for Oberweis, and that there is a process to evaluate all bids. The Hoffmann family intends to make a competitive offer to buy the company and is confident they will deliver the highest bid, based on current due diligence.
The Hoffmann family has a history of investing in multi-generational, family-owned businesses and was specifically drawn to invest in Oberweis because of its highly regarded history, brand and alignment with family values. The firm prioritizes investing in world-class companies, and Oberweis’ premier products and commitment to service have made the brand a household name for nearly a century.
Oberweis Dairy, founded in 1927 and privately owned by the Oberweis family, is headquartered in Illinois. The company’s businesses include a dairy home delivery service across parts of the Midwest and Texas, a chain of corporate- and franchise-owned dairy and ice cream stores in the Chicago area, a distribution service to regional supermarkets, and high-end fast food hamburger restaurants named “That Burger Joint.”
“Our vision is all about quality, legacy and longevity – we’re not looking to buy and flip businesses,” said Geoff Hoffmann, co-CEO of Hoffmann Family of Companies. “The Oberweis name has been associated with delicious, premium quality products for decades. Notwithstanding its recent financial struggles, we see an opportunity to revive the company’s heritage of success. This may take many different shapes or forms and we are highly enthusiastic about the prospect of our involvement.”
The Hoffmann family’s dairy roots trace back to founder David Hoffmann’s early childhood growing up on a dairy farm in Washington, Missouri, where he would deliver milk before school. The family’s entrepreneurial growth story began 1989, when David Hoffmann founded DHR International (now DHR Global), a Chicago-based global executive search and leadership advisory firm.
In recent years, the family has acquired more than 200 founder-led companies to provide them with the capital to fund growth and improvements. Most of the companies acquired by HFOC are still led by their founders, including second- and third-generation family leaders.
About Hoffmann Family of Companies
The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies) is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 100 national brands, and employs 9,000 global employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 250 locations around the world. The HF Companies’ verticals include Aviation, Agriculture, Financial Services, Hospitality, Business & Professional Services, Industrial, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing, Real Estate and Transportation. For more information, visit: www.hfcompanies.com.
About Oberweis Dairy
Having been started on a dairy farm nearly a century ago, Oberweis Dairy provides the best-tasting milk, ice cream, and now chocolates available anywhere. The company is famous for milk in its trademark glass bottles as well as its best-in-class smooth and creamy ice cream. The company distributes its products through its 48 ice cream and dairy stores, to thousands of homes through its home delivery service, and through grocery stores. Oberweis is family owned and operated, currently by the 3rd and 4th generations. For more information about Oberweis Dairy, visit www.oberweis.com.
Media Contact
Suzanne Jacob, CMO
[email protected]
ESTERO, Fla. – Hertz Arena is thrilled to announce its nomination for the second consecutive year’s prestigious Academy of Country Music (ACM) Arena of the Year Award. This recognition underscores Hertz Arena’s commitment to providing guests with top-notch entertainment and exceptional experiences.
The Academy of Country Music Awards is one of the most highly anticipated events in the music industry, recognizing excellence in country music and featuring many industry leaders, entertainers, albums & artists. The winners will be announced at the Academy of Country Music Honors, held annually in August at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN.
“We’re honored to receive a second consecutive nomination for the ACM Arena of the Year Award,” said Geoff Hoffmann, co-CEO of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, which owns Hertz Arena. “This nomination reflects the dedication of our leadership team and employees to serving the Southwest Florida community and delivering unforgettable performances.”
This nomination is a testament to Hertz Arena’s ongoing dedication to delivering world-class performances and events. The ACM Arena of the Year Award recognizes outstanding achievements in the country music industry, celebrating venues that provide exceptional experiences for artists and fans. Hertz Arena is nominated alongside esteemed venues such as Bridgestone Arena, Dickies Arena, KFC Yum! Center, and T-Mobile Center.
“Receiving this nomination for the second year in a row is a remarkable achievement, and it highlights the outstanding contributions of our entire team. Our commitment to excellence and passion for providing unforgettable experiences to our guests has set us apart,” said Scott Bryant, President, and Chief Financial Officer of Hertz Arena.
Hertz Arena in Southwest Florida signed an agreement with Oak View Group (OVG) in October 2021. The agreement was a long-term partnership that aimed to enhance the fan experience at Hertz Arena and attract more high-profile events to the venue. As part of the agreement, OVG was set to provide consulting services to Hertz Arena on various aspects of venue operations, including booking, marketing, and sponsorship. The partnership was seen as a significant step forward for Hertz Arena, which has been a popular entertainment destination in Southwest Florida for over two decades.
Hertz Arena has been a staple in Southwest Florida since 1998, hosting various events, including concerts, sporting events, and family shows. Recent country music performers at Hertz Arena include Oliver Anthony, Russell Dickerson, Justin Moore, Priscilla Block, Hardy, Lainey Wilson, Jon Pardi, Brett Young, Thomas Rhett, Jason Aldean, and many more.
For more information on the Academy of Country Music Awards and a full list of categories and nominees, please visit here.
About Hertz Arena:
Hertz Arena is a premier entertainment venue located in Estero, Florida. Since opening its doors in 1998, the arena has hosted a wide range of events, including concerts, sporting events, family shows, and more. With a seating capacity of up to 8,000 guests, Hertz Arena is one of the largest and most versatile venues in Southwest Florida. The arena has undergone several renovations over the years, including multi-million-dollar upgrades that added new seating options, hospitality areas, and luxury suites. Hertz Arena is committed to providing world-class entertainment and exceptional experiences for its guests. For more information, visit hertzarena.com.
The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HFOC), a US-based family-owned private equity firm, proudly announces that its Founder and Chairman, David Hoffmann, has secured a place on Forbes’ 2024 World Billionaires List for the third consecutive year. He joins industry titans such as Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg at the forefront of this year’s rankings.
Hoffmann’s entrepreneurial roots trace back to 1989, when he founded DHR International (now DHR Global), a leading global executive search and leadership advisory firm, and Jobplex, a search firm focused on emerging leaders. With a global headquarters in Chicago, DHR Global/Jobplex is a leading, privately held provider of executive search, leadership consulting, and emerging leader search solutions. The firm has expertise in more than 20 industries and functional areas, delivered through consultants in more than 50 markets spanning 22 countries.
The Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned company and a multi-generational family business with more than 9,000 employees and over 200 distinct brands and properties. Since 2023, the firm has acquired or founded ten companies, including CDN Controls Ltd. (Alberta, Canada), Doonan Specialized Trailer (KS), JED Transportation (MO), Maurer Publishing (MI), MNH (UK), RMC DMC (CO), Wayne Manufacturing (IN), Young Harris Water Sports & RV (SC) and iFoundMyDoctor.com (FL).
His real estate revitalization endeavors, managed through Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate, include more than 30 properties in Winnetka and the North Shore. The portfolio also includes properties in Naples, Florida; Augusta, Missouri; Mackinac Island, Michigan; and Avon, Colorado—totaling assets worth over $1 billion.
David and the Hoffmann family actively support causes close to their hearts. Some of their notable Chicago-based philanthropic support includes JDRF (a major diabetes research institution), Children’s Home & Aid Society, and the Joffrey Ballet.
In 2023, David received the prestigious Horatio Alger Award for overcoming adversity and an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from UCM. David and his wife, Jerri, have been married for over 50 years and maintain homes in Winnetka, IL, and Naples, FL. Their legacy extends to three children and 12 grandchildren. Sons Geoff and Greg now serve as co-chief executives of the Hoffmann Family of Companies.
To see David Hoffmann’s Forbes profile, visit forbes.com/profile/david-hoffmann. To see the complete ranking, visit forbes.com/billionaires.
Florida Chapter is Tasked with Protecting Florida’s $111 Billion Hospitality Industry
Jenny Gezella, President of the Naples Princess, Miss Naples, Port-O-Call and Hoffmann Marine, has been named President of the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Collier County Chapter. The FRLA Collier County Chapter is tasked with protecting Florida’s $111 billion hospitality industry, and is entrusted with the vital mission of advocating for the interests of Collier County’s hospitality sector within both state and local legislatures. The ultimate goal is to foster a positive impact on tourism, enhancing the experience for visitors and guests alike.
Gezella’s leadership role involves forging strategic alliances among Collier County’s hospitality and tourism businesses, offering essential resources to its 150-plus local members, including renowned hotel partners such as JW Marriott Marco Island and Ritz-Carlton Naples Resorts, among others. The organization also actively supports charitable initiatives that contribute to the overall quality of life in Collier County, including ProStart within the Collier County Schools which is a two-year program for high school students that develops the best and brightest talent into tomorrow’s industry leaders.
The position was previously held by Sharon Lockwood, General Manager of the JW Marriott, and now falls under Gezella’s capable leadership. In addition, Randy Smith, CEO of Naples Transportation and Tours and part of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, is an influential partner of the organization, sitting on the board.
“I am honored to be elected by my peers to lead the organization this year,” said Jenny Gezella, President of the Naples Princess, Miss Naples, Port-O-Call and Hoffmann Marine. “We have an incredible board comprised of top industry leaders, and I truly enjoy being able to represent our industry on so many levels. FRLA provides invaluable resources for our local businesses while fighting on state levels to protect business. I can’t wait for everyone to see what we have in store for this upcoming year.”
Notably, Gezella’s commitment extends beyond the FRLA Collier County Chapter, as she has recently been elected to the Board for the Passenger Vessel Association. Gezella also serves on the Passenger Vessel Association Foundation Board and the Lee Health Foundation Board, showcasing her dedication to various facets of the community.
As Jenny Gezella steps into this pivotal role, the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association (FRLA) Collier County Chapter anticipates a year of growth, collaboration and positive impact under her visionary leadership.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Jessica Carruth
Director, Communications & PR
[email protected]
About the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association:
The Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA) is Florida’s premier non-profit hospitality industry trade association. Founded in 1946 as the Florida Restaurant Association, FRLA merged with the Florida Hotel and Motel Association in 2006. FRLA’s more than 10,000 members include independent hoteliers and restaurateurs, household name franchises, theme parks and suppliers. The association’s mission is to protect, educate and promote Florida’s $111.7 billion hospitality industry which represents 1.5 million employees. Dedicated to safeguarding the needs of the membership, FRLA provides legislative advocacy to ensure the voices of its members are heard and their interests are protected. The association offers regulatory compliance and food safety training through SafeStaff® and FRLA’s subsidiary, RCS Training. The FRLA Educational Foundation provides industry-developed, career-building high school programs throughout the state.