David Hoffmann has already bought 5 percent of one of America’s largest newspaper companies. Now, he wants to control the whole thing.
The newspaper industry has decayed so much in recent years that even Warren Buffett — the world-famous investor whose annual meetings have included a newspaper toss — has declared the business “toast.” But another billionaire is placing a counterintuitive bet that local newspapers aren’t dead yet. David Hoffmann, a Florida investor worth $1.6 billion, who has purchased more than 5 percent of Lee Enterprises, one of America’s largest newspaper companies, wants to buy up a controlling stake.
By Benjamin Mullin | Read the article here: New York Times
Mr. Hoffmann, 72, acknowledged in an interview Friday that investing in local newspapers in 2024 is a somewhat quixotic proposition. But he said that he believes print newspapers are “a key part of the American fabric.” He also thinks Lee Enterprises is undervalued by the stock market and a smart financial bet.
“These local newspapers are really important to these communities,” Mr. Hoffmann said. “With the digital age and technology, it’s changing rapidly. But I think there’s room for both, and we’d like to be a part of that.”
Mr. Hoffmann is a relative newcomer to the struggling newspaper industry. The founder of DHR Global, an executive search firm, Mr. Hoffmann parlayed his early success into a sprawling hodgepodge of companies including Mitch’s Cookies, Oberweis Dairy, the Florida Everblades minor-league hockey team and Linstol, a manufacturer of in-flight airline amenities like blankets and headsets. His family of companies, based in Naples, Fla., also includes a media group that has accumulated a handful of small newspapers, including the Mackinac Island Town Crier on Mackinac Island in Michigan and Northern California’s Napa Valley Register, a former Lee newspaper.
According to a securities filing last week, a trust connected to Mr. Hoffmann’s family paid roughly $4 million for a 5.2 percent stake in Lee Enterprises, the fourth-largest newspaper chain in the country. The company, based in Davenport, Iowa, owns roughly 75 newspapers in 26 states, including The St. Louis Post-Dispatch and The Buffalo News — which it bought from Mr. Buffett’s BH Media Group in 2020.
But Mr. Hoffmann wants to go bigger. He said his motivation was simple: He wants to preserve community news — including more local sports coverage.
A native of Washington, Mo., (population: 14,500), Mr. Hoffmann said he was raised in a home that did not have hot running water until he was a sophomore in high school. The son of a nurse and a milk delivery man, Mr. Hoffmann, who was the quarterback for his high school football team, lamented that coverage of local games was disappearing.
As newspapers die off, he said, “you don’t get to read about kids’ sports.”
Lee Enterprises, which has nearly $500 million in debt, lost roughly $3.7 million last quarter. The company has cut costs in recent years, including furloughing and laying off journalists, to offset declines in advertising and subscription revenue.
Alden Global Capital, an investment firm that has bought newspapers across the United States, submitted an unsolicited proposal in 2021 to buy the company for roughly $141 million. Lee Enterprises rejected that proposal and put in place a “poison pill” plan that prevented Alden from buying control of the company.
Though Mr. Hoffmann has plans to buy additional shares of Lee Enterprises, he said he was not a hostile activist and planned to talk to the company’s management team this week.
“We want it to be friendly,” Mr. Hoffmann said. “They have called us, as you would expect, and said, ‘What are you guys doing?’ And we’re going to sit down with them and tell them our story.”
A spokeswoman for Lee Enterprises did not respond to an email seeking comment. The company’s stock has risen about 64 percent, to $14.34, since the Hoffmann family trust went on a share-buying spree in late September. It is now valued at nearly $90 million.
Hoffmann Media Group, a subsidiary of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, bought the Napa Valley Register and other papers last month from Lee for an undisclosed sum. It now owns about 12 newspapers, said J. Pason Gaddis, the media group’s chief executive.
Mr. Gaddis said that the Hoffmann Media Group’s plan to transform Lee’s newspapers involves reinvesting in journalism to build a more substantial digital subscription business. The company would do that, in part, by consolidating the company’s printing business to regional hubs and reducing its real estate footprint.
“You put journalists back into City Council meetings, you put journalists back out at sports games for the local communities,” Mr. Gaddis said. “You have local management again in these newspapers, which has all been stripped out.”
Dallas, TX (Oct. 7, 2024)—The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies) announced today the acquisition of Premier Transportation, a leading transport provider with an extensive fleet of over 60 vehicles that include sedans, vans, limousines, Mercedes Sprinters, minibusses and motor coaches. Premier Transportation serves the Dallas-Fort Worth area, while also extending its reach globally through its Premier Drives Global network.
Since 1996, under the leadership of Kelly and Eric Devlin, Premier Transportation has set the standard for excellence in Dallas’ ground transportation industry. The company has earned the prestigious ‘National Operator of the Year Award’ from the National Limousine Association on three occasions—2009, 2011 and 2017. Further highlighting the national reputation and profile of the Premier Transportation brand, Eric Devlin is a featured keynote speaker at this year’s National Limousine Association meeting on October 14th as part of the panel providing a “State of the Industry” address.
“Having Kelly, Eric and the entire Premier staff and chauffeur corps join our family is a perfect fit for both companies,” said Tamir Rankow, Director at HF Companies. “We have so much in common, and our Five-Star focus is aligned in delivering exceptional customer service.”
Rankow continued, “Kelly and Eric will fit right into the family, as they share the same ethics and principles as we do. They are down-to-earth, wonderful people who are highly regarded in the industry and are experienced professionals in transportation and logistics.”
This mutually beneficial transaction is further supported by the strategic growth envisioned for Texas and the immense value of the Dallas market. Few destinations rival Dallas, with its dynamic culture, modern amenities and urban sophistication. The city also boasts over 77,000 hotel rooms, enhancing its appeal as a premier destination.
Kelly and Eric will continue to lead the management team in their current positions and titles, staying actively involved in the day-to-day operations at Premier Transportation through this exciting transition and for many years to come.
In a joint statement, Eric and Kelly Devlin, President and CEO of Premier Transportation, shared, “Joining forces with the Hoffmann Family of Companies marks an exciting new phase for us. We are eager to tap into their expertise and resources to further enhance our services and elevate the luxury transportation experience we provide to our esteemed clients.”
Emphasizing the significance of this strategic acquisition, Cvent has released its highly regarded list of the ‘Top 50 Meeting Destinations’ in the United States. Based on an analysis of over $16 billion in group business value sourced through Cvent in 2023, Dallas, Texas secured a spot in the top 10, ranking at number 9.
With the acquisition of Premier Transportation, the Hoffmann Family of Companies becomes the largest private owner and operator of a Black Car vehicle fleet, offering comprehensive service across the country, with locations in Dallas, Naples, Fort Myers, Marco Island, Napa and Sonoma Valley, San Francisco, St. Louis and Augusta, Missouri, Aspen and Palm Beach.
Media Company Grows Portfolio with New Publications
Fort Myers, FL (Sept 30, 2024) — Hoffmann Media Group (HMG), part of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, announced today the acquisition of Napa Valley Publishing Company. This strategic expansion adds a prestigious collection of historic publications to the Hoffmann portfolio, including the Napa Valley Register (est. 1863), St. Helena Star (est. 1874) and Inside Napa Valley Magazine. The acquisition also includes prominent online publications such as The Weekly Calistogan (est. 1877) and American Canyon Eagle.
Headquartered in Fort Myers, Florida, HMG blends a rich legacy of established brands with cutting-edge digital innovation. Through creative storytelling and data-driven insights, the media company delivers compelling content that sparks meaningful conversations and fosters lasting connections within the communities it serves. By embracing the digital frontier, HMG provides dynamic advertising solutions and interactive experiences across websites, mobile apps and e-editions, continually redefining multimedia engagement and setting new standards for excellence.
“This acquisition not only strengthens our investment in the Napa region but also aligns perfectly with our strategy to enhance local news media,” said Geoff Hoffmann, Co-CEO of Hoffmann Family of Companies. “By integrating Napa Valley Publishing into our portfolio, we are committed to covering stories that matter to local communities and fostering a sense of unity and connection among residents. We aim to bring people together through quality journalism and community-focused content.”
Since its inception, Napa Valley Publishing Co. has been dedicated to serving as an essential source of news and information for Napa County, becoming a trusted part of its readers’ daily lives. Hoffmann Media Group is deeply committed to the importance of local journalism and looks forward to carrying forward the company’s mission.
Pason Gaddis, CEO of Hoffmann Media Group, shared, “We’re pleased to bring Napa Valley Publishing back under family ownership. For nearly 162 years, this institution has been an integral part of Napa Valley’s identity. By restoring local management and decision-making, we’re not only honoring its rich history but also ensuring that the tradition of quality journalism continues to serve future generations.”
Gaddis also announced that Dan Evans had been promoted to editor and publisher, with oversight of both the content and business sides of the operation.
Evans, who joined Napa Valley Publisher as its executive editor in March 2022, said he was excited to be taking on the additional role.
“With this shift, we will be better able to anticipate and meet the informational and business needs of Napa County and the larger region,” he said. “I’m incredibly lucky to be working with so many great people locally, and am confident our new owners will help bring us to our full potential.”
About Hoffmann Media Group
Hoffmann Media Group, a privately held media company based in Southwest Florida, publishes a variety of print, online, mobile and email publications. Over the past 15 years, our writers, designers and ad builders have earned over 200 awards from the Florida Press Association, Society of Professional Journalists and Florida Newspaper Advertising and Marketing Executives Association. The Florida Press Association has recognized us as the best in the state for content, consumer experiences and advertising services. Our flagship brands serve over 30 markets, offering premier digital advertising services across Florida, Michigan and beyond. For more information, visit www.hoffmannmediagroup.com.
About Hoffmann Family of Companies
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 110 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.
The Company Continues to Strengthen Its Commitment to the Missouri Market
Clayton, MO (Sept. 27, 2024) — Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), a subsidiary of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, is excited to announce the acquisition of the 9800 Clayton Road property in Ladue, Missouri. The building is home to Schnarr’s Hardware, a long-standing retail store that has proudly served Ladue and its surrounding communities for over 60 years.
HCRE’s diverse portfolio spans retail, commercial, office spaces, multi-family housing, industrial properties and land under development, with a total value exceeding $1 billion. Recently, HCRE went under contract to acquire the 600,000-square-foot Pierre Laclede Center, in addition to currently owning 100 S. Brentwood and the 8000 Maryland Avenue nearby. The new building, situated in the heart of Ladue, presents a rare opportunity to own a high-profile location within a well-established trade area.
“We are excited to welcome 9800 Clayton Road to our portfolio,” said Greg Hoffmann, Principal & CEO of Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate. “This is a prime property cherished by the local community. We look forward to continuing to invest in this area.”
Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate is headquartered locally and looking to grow its footprint in the area. Currently, its portfolio includes properties in California, Canada, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin.
For more information about the Hoffmann Family of Companies and its recent acquisitions, please visit HFCompanies.com.
About Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate
Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), a subsidiary of HF Companies, is a premier real estate investment and development firm specializing in the acquisition, management and redevelopment of commercial properties. With a diverse portfolio that spans stabilized and value-added assets, HCRE is committed to enhancing the communities in which it operates through thoughtful development and superior property management. HCRE’s strategic investments are focused both within the United States and internationally, reinforcing its position as a leader in the commercial real estate industry. For more information, visit www.hoffmanncre.com.
About Hoffmann Family of Companies
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 110 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.
The Company is Doubling Down on the Clayton Office Market
Clayton, MO (Sept 13, 2024) — Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), a subsidiary of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, is excited to announce that it is under contract to acquire the Pierre Laclede Center in downtown Clayton, Missouri.
The property features two office towers with a combined space of nearly 600,000 square feet. This acquisition more than doubles the organization’s total investment in the area which is approaching 1,000,000 square feet.
HCRE boasts a diverse portfolio that includes retail, commercial and office spaces, multi-family housing, industrial properties and land under development. Committed to elevating each property to a Class “A+” standard, HCRE’s portfolio exceeds $1 billion in value. Their latest acquisition, Pierre Laclede Center, is a premier business destination, attracting corporations, entrepreneurial ventures and professional services firms seeking exceptional business rentals. The company plans to elevate the property with further capital investment to enhance amenities and aesthetics in hopes of attracting more businesses into the property.
“We are excited to welcome the Pierre Laclede Center to our portfolio,” said Greg Hoffmann, Principal & CEO of HCRE. “This acquisition perfectly aligns with our strategic vision, and we’re thrilled to add such a distinguished property to our growing collection. Alongside this announcement, we are also finalizing a restructuring with our lender at 8000 Maryland, further strengthening our commitment to the Clayton marketplace and its long-term resilience.”
HCRE continues its expansive growth by building a portfolio that includes both stabilized and value-added assets in prime locations nationwide. Recently, the company announced 3 acquisitions in the bustling North Shore of Chicago, where it serves as one of the largest landlords.
Currently, HCRE’s portfolio includes properties in California, Canada, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin.
About Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate
Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), a subsidiary of HF Companies, is a premier real estate investment and development firm specializing in the acquisition, management and redevelopment of commercial properties. With a diverse portfolio that spans stabilized and value-added assets, HCRE is committed to enhancing the communities in which it operates through thoughtful development and superior property management. HCRE’s strategic investments are focused both within the United States and internationally, reinforcing its position as a leader in the commercial real estate industry. For more information, visit hoffmanncre.com.
Appoints Seasoned Marine Executive to Lead the Newly Acquired Company
Mackinaw City, MI (Sept 11, 2024) — After a challenging season following the acquisition of the Mackinac Island Ferry Company (MIFC), the Hoffmann family, with guidance from various stakeholders, remains committed to operating two distinct ferry services to Mackinac Island.
In keeping with this commitment, The Arnold Transit Company, with its long and storied history in the region, will be revived as HF Companies rebrands MIFC to honor this legacy.
To stabilize and grow the newly branded Arnold Transit Company operation, we are excited to announce the appointment of experienced team members. Veronica Dobrowolski will serve as the President, supported by Dan Musser, Bob Brown and Judge Bill Carmody. They will be backed by their trusted staff members.
“I am honored that the Hoffmann Family of Companies has the faith in myself and those individuals named and those several unnamed others who have agreed to help with this transition,” said President Veronica Dobrowolski. “My goal is to establish a quality ferry service for the cities of St. Ignace, Mackinaw City and Mackinac Island in the time-honored tradition since 1878 of Arnold Transit Company. Our first priority is providing the best possible winter service to our residents and contractors. I appreciate all the well wishes already received and with a host of assistance will work diligently to provide exemplary service to our local constituents and visitors to Mackinac Island. We have a lot of work ahead of us but with the support of others I am confident we will get it done.”
The expert team at Arnold Transit Company, with ongoing support from HF Companies, is dedicated to providing safe, reliable and efficient service to Mackinac Island for years to come.
“HF Companies extends its deepest gratitude to Chris and Billy Shepler and the entire Shepler’s Ferry Service team for their support, dedication and commitment throughout the season, especially following the purchase of MIFC,” said Geoff Hoffmann, Co-CEO Hoffmann Family of Companies. “Chris Shepler will continue to lead Shepler’s Ferry Service and lend his expertise to the Arnold Transit Company rebuilding.”
This rebranding marks a new chapter for the company, and we look forward to continuing to serve the Mackinac Island community with the same dedication and commitment to safety that customers have come to expect.
Company History:
Step aboard an Arnold Transit boat and you instantly become part of a rich heritage of Straits ferry service dating back to 1878. Our fleet, the largest and most diverse on the Great Lakes, shoulders the legacy of connecting dreamers, adventurers and families for nearly 150 years. Our journey began in 1878 when George T. Arnold founded Arnold & Coats Ferry Line. The company changed its name to Arnold Transit Company in 1890; was acquired by former US Senator and ‘Father of the Mackinac Bridge’ Prentiss M. Brown in 1935; and merged with Island Transport Company after WWII—adding its St. Ignace service.
In 2016, Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry, founded in 1978 by 5 Local Families with the acquisition of the Argosy Line, acquired the assets of Arnold Transit and repositioned the new company under the umbrella of Mackinac Island Ferry Company. The acquisition included an impressive Fleet, the largest Dock in Mackinac City, and Historic Dock #1 on Mackinac Island.
In 2024, Hoffmann Marine, a division of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, acquired Mackinac Island Ferry Company and will operate under the familiar name of The Arnold Transit Company. Today, The Arnold Transit Company, proudly represents these local pioneers that created Great Companies and all the incredible employees who helped earn your customer loyalty over the years. We WELCOME you onboard and THANK YOU for helping continue our commitment to providing a truly authentic, local Mackinac experience.
About Arnold Transit 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 Arnold Transit Company Brand.
HCRE Finalizes the First of Five Building Acquisitions Across Chicago’s North Shore
Chicago, IL — Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), a subsidiary of Hoffmann Family of Companies, announced a significant expansion today, further establishing itself as the largest commercial property owner in Winnetka, IL. The acquisition of 64 Green Bay Road. marks the first of five buildings HCRE has under contract, all set to close in the coming months across Chicago’s North Shore.
HCRE has a diverse portfolio spanning retail, commercial/office, multi-family housing, industrial properties and land in development. The organization consistently elevates its properties to a Class “A+” standard, with a portfolio now exceeding $1 billion. Their latest acquisition, 64 Green Bay Road, home to Chicago’s renowned restaurant Aboyer, exemplifies this commitment.
“We are thrilled to expand our presence in Winnetka with this strategic acquisition,” said Greg Hoffmann, Principal & CEO of Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate. “Our goal is to continue to invest in this vibrant community, offering premier commercial spaces that support local businesses and drive economic growth. This expansion underscores our commitment to Chicago’s North Shore and in its continued prosperity.”
HCRE continues its expansive growth, with a portfolio featuring both stabilized and value-add properties in prime locations across the country. The firm is poised for future investments, both domestically and internationally. The team at HCRE is committed to delivering iconic developments, exceptional property management and thoughtfully executed redevelopment.
Currently, HCRE’s portfolio includes properties in California, Canada, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin.
About Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate
Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), a subsidiary of HF Companies, is a premier real estate investment and development firm specializing in the acquisition, management and redevelopment of commercial properties. With a diverse portfolio that spans stabilized and value-added assets, HCRE is committed to enhancing the communities in which it operates through thoughtful development and superior property management. HCRE’s strategic investments are focused both within the United States and internationally, reinforcing its position as a leader in the commercial real estate industry. For more information, visit www.hoffmanncre.com.
Viking Operates U.S. Manufacturing Facilities in Kentucky, Indiana and Corry, Pennsylvania, with Corry Serving as its Global
Headquarters
Corry, PA (Aug 2, 2024)—The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies) announced today the acquisition of Viking Plastics, a premier manufacturer of advanced plastic components. Viking Plastics specializes in proprietary and custom injection molded parts and assemblies for demanding applications across the automotive, HVAC and general industrial markets. Their esteemed clientele includes Ford, General Motors, Rheem, Saft and more.
Since 1972, Viking Plastics has thrived by creating innovative, cost-effective solutions for complex engineering challenges. With extensive expertise in custom molding, the company operates over 50 injection molding machines and multiple automated assembly cells across its U.S. manufacturing facilities in Kentucky, Indiana and Pennsylvania. From its headquarters in Corry, Pennsylvania, Viking Plastics serves a broad customer base across North America and international markets, extending from Central Europe to the Far East.
Geoff Hoffmann, Co-CEO of HF Companies, remarked, “Viking Plastics has laid the groundwork essential for expansion, supported by its robust team, advanced manufacturing capabilities and distinctive commitment to culture. We are excited to enhance our investment in the U.S. manufacturing sector with such a transformative organization.”
The acquisition of Viking Plastics strengthens HF Companies’ impressive portfolio, which encompasses a diverse array of manufacturing businesses across Canada, China, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin. HF Companies are particularly excited about Viking Plastics’ advanced automation capabilities and its ability to rapidly produce high-quality products, driving efficiency and margin expansion.
“We are excited to join HF Companies,” said Kelly Goodsel, President and CEO, of Viking Plastics. “This acquisition positions us for the next phase of our growth, and we eagerly anticipate both continued success and strengthening relationships with our exceptional clients.”
About Hoffmann Family of Companies
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 110 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 Viking Plastics
Founded in 1972, Viking Plastics is a leading innovator in custom plastic injection molding solutions, specializing in the development and production of high-quality sealing closures for automotive and HVAC applications. With over 50 injection molding machines and advanced automated assembly cells operating globally, Viking Plastics delivers cutting-edge, cost-effective solutions to a diverse clientele across North America and international markets, including Central Europe and the Far East. Headquartered in Corry, Pennsylvania, and with additional U.S. manufacturing facilities in Kentucky and Indiana, Viking Plastics is committed to excellence in engineering and manufacturing, continually advancing the industry with its proprietary technologies and customer-focused approach. For more information, visit: www.vikingplastics.com.
Media Contact
Jessica Carruth
Director, Communications & PR
[email protected]
Aspen, CO (July 19, 2024)—The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies) announced today the acquisition of CTS Aspen (CTS), the leading luxury ground transportation vendor based in Aspen, Colorado. CTS operates 24/7, 365 days a year, with a fleet of multiple vehicles, including SUVs, minibuses and mini coaches. This strategic acquisition further strengthens HF Companies’ Transportation Division, expanding its reach as a nationwide vendor in the transportation industry.
CTS handles weddings, corporate and special events, solidifying its reputation as the premier provider of transportation consulting, planning and execution in Aspen and beyond. Throughout its years and changes in ownership, CTS has transformed from a typical black-car transportation provider into a comprehensive event support transportation company, boasting one of the highest revenue-to-mileage ratios in the industry.
Tamir Rankow, Director of HF Companies, commented, “CTS is a great addition to our family of companies and will continue to support our other Aspen-based destination management company, RMC DMC, as well as all luxury transportation and logistical needs in the highly affluent Aspen area.”
CTS Aspen holds a dominant market share locally, with over 90% of inquiries coming through referrals via phone and email. Conveniently located across from ASE/Pitkin County Airport, the organization is perfectly positioned to reliably meet transportation needs, especially for airport transfers.
For more information about the Hoffmann Family of Companies and its recent acquisitions, please visit HFCompanies.com.
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. For more information, visit: www.hfcompanies.com.
About CTS Aspen
CTS Aspen is a premier ground transportation provider based in Aspen, Colorado. Operating 24/7, 365 days a year, CTS Aspen boasts a fleet of 18 passenger vehicles, including SUVs, mini buses and mini coaches. Established in 1987, the company has successfully handled over 600 weddings and 900 corporate and special events, earning a reputation as the leading provider of transportation consulting, planning and execution in the Aspen area and beyond. For more information, visit: www.limousines-of-aspen.com.
Media Contact
Jessica Carruth
Director, Communications & PR
[email protected]
Lowell, MI (July 9, 2024)—The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies) has successfully acquired Envision Engineering, a full-service, state-of-the-art metal forming and manufacturing company that specializes in the deep-draw forming of sheet metal components. This acquisition is a significant step in aligning HF Companies Manufacturing vertical to provide a broader range of support and services.
Founded in 1999, Envision Engineering offers services related to tooling and engineering using top-of-the-line simulation, design, and inspection software. The company handles a wide range of manufacturing jobs, including deep-draw forming, Tig welding, laser scanning, laser cutting, precision machining, and fabrication.
“We are excited to welcome Envision Engineering to the Hoffmann Family of Companies,” said Geoff Hoffmann, Co-CEO, Hoffmann Family of Companies. “Their reputation for designing and creating beautiful and innovative parts for some of the highest quality and most iconic brands in the motorcycle industry position them well for future growth within the HF Companies portfolio.”
Envisions Engineering’s in-house experts have a proven track record, working with major names in various sectors, including OEM, Custom Motorcycle, Marine, and Aerospace. Their extensive experience positions them as reliable partners for handling demanding projects. Envision Engineering utilizes cutting-edge technology to measure and certify their tooling, fixtures, and products, and all inspection processes conform to industry-recognized standards.
“Since 1999, we have built Envision to deliver high-quality service and components to our key markets,” said Scott Roerig, Founder & Co-Owner, Envision Engineering. “Through this acquisition, we are committed to another 25 years of providing custom end-to-end engineered products for our customers, under our next-generation leadership team.”
The acquisition of Envision Engineering adds to HF Companies’ impressive portfolio of manufacturing companies, which includes companies across Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin.
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 Envision Engineering
Envision Engineering (Envision) is a full-service, state-of-the-art metal forming and manufacturing company that specializes in the deep draw forming of sheet metal components. Founded in 1999, products engineered and manufactured by Envision can be seen on several top-of-the-line OEM American-made motorcycles, including fuel tanks, fenders, covers, and belt guards for Indian, Victory, and Harley-Davidson (aftermarket). In addition to the motorcycle industry, Envision also supplies the aftermarket automotive, agriculture, and marine industries. For more information, visit: www.envisionengineering.com.
Media Contact
Jessica Carruth
Director, Communications & PR
[email protected]