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.
The Company Expands its Portfolio to Over Thirty Properties Spanning from Wilmette to Lake Forest
Chicago, IL (September 3, 2024) — Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), a subsidiary of HF Companies, has further strengthened its position as the largest commercial real estate owner in Chicago’s North Shore with its latest acquisitions.
Today, HCRE announced the purchase of two premier properties: 1114 and 1116 Central Ave. in Wilmette, Illinois. This follows the recent acquisition of 64 Green Bay Rd. in Winnetka, Illinois. With these strategic additions, HCRE now boasts ownership of over thirty prime properties spanning from Wilmette to Lake Forest, primarily situated in vibrant downtown areas and key shopping districts.
Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate is a rapidly growing company with a diverse portfolio that includes retail, commercial/office, multi-family housing, industrial and land in development. The organization consistently transforms and maintains properties to a Class “A+” standard, and its portfolio now exceeds $1 billion.
In June 2024, HF Companies’ Osprey Capital completed the acquisition of Oberweis Dairy, a beloved Illinois-based brand known for its iconic milk, ice cream and home delivery service. Building on this momentum, HCRE plans to transform 1114 Central Ave. into a new Oberweis retail location, further driving growth and enriching the local community.
“We are thrilled to expand our presence in Chicago’s North Shore with these strategic acquisitions,” said Greg Hoffmann, Principal & CEO of Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate. “Our goal is to invest in and enhance these vibrant communities, providing premier commercial spaces that support local businesses and contribute to the area’s financial growth. This expansion underscores our commitment to the North Shore and our confidence in its potential for continued prosperity.”
HCRE continues its expansive growth, with a portfolio comprising stabilized and value-added properties in strategic locations nationwide. The firm has plans for future investments both domestically and internationally.
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.
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]
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]
Oberweis leadership team driving expansion plans with support from Hoffmann Family of Companies
WINNETKA, Ill. (June 19, 2024) – Hoffmann Family of Companies, through its investment arm, Osprey Capital LLC, announces that it has purchased Oberweis Dairy in its entirety. This significant milestone demonstrates the Oberweis brand emerging from Chapter 11 reorganization with renewed strength and an eye toward steady, strategic growth.
Adam Kraber, President of Oberweis Dairy, expressed enthusiasm about the new chapter: “The entire Oberweis team is thrilled to embark on this journey with the support of Hoffmann Family of Companies. From our manufacturing and distribution centers to our corporate offices and retail stores, the Oberweis team will continue the company legacy of super-premium quality and convenience. We remain committed to ‘serving up happiness’ to our valued customers.”
The Hoffmann family’s dairy heritage traces back to founder David Hoffmann’s childhood, where he helped his father, a milkman, make deliveries before school. When Oberweis, with nearly a century of history, faced bankruptcy, the Hoffmanns seized the opportunity to revive and enhance the brand, leveraging its storied reputation for quality.
Milk delivery experience runs through the management team as well. President Adam Kraber began his career at Oberweis as a milkman and was promoted into roles with increasing responsibility from 2000 to 2015. In 2022, Kraber returned to Oberweis as COO and was promoted to President in February 2024.
“My wife and four boys have always loved Oberweis! We have been consistent home delivery customers for more than 15 years, and often visit the Glenview, IL, location to share a laugh and a cone,” said Geoff Hoffmann, co-CEO of Hoffmann Family of Companies. “Those family moments are so important as our kids grow up. Now, as part of Hoffmann Family of Companies, we’re excited to contribute to the continued legacy of the Oberweis brand, creating family memories for generations to come!”
Drawing on extensive experience in acquiring founder-led companies, Hoffmann Family of Companies is well-positioned to provide capital for growth and improvement. Most of the companies acquired by Hoffmann Family of Companies continue to be led by their founders and existing management teams. Adam Kraber will continue as President of Oberweis Dairy, drawing on over 17 years of experience with the company. The company’s management team of tenured and talented leaders will also retain their positions.
Geoff Hoffmann added, “Adam and the management team have pivotal roles in continuing the Oberweis brand and building a new plan for profitability. Together, we’ll develop a new strategy to enhance operations, drive expansion, and maintain the premium quality that Oberweis represents.”
Following the acquisition, the company will implement a short-term, 100-day plan for rapid improvements while crafting a long-term growth strategy. In the coming weeks and months, the company plans to announce new locations in Chicagoland and other key markets. There are no plans to close existing locations or make substantial cuts to the business. The Oberweis Dairy brand name and beloved recipes will remain the same.
Regular updates will be shared with customers via social media and email. Additionally, Oberweis Dairy and Hoffmann Family of Company leaders plan to host an ‘Ice Cream Day’ at stores in key markets throughout the summer.
Oberweis and Hoffmann teams come together to invest in the future of Oberweis and continue serving happiness to loyal customers
WINNETKA, Ill. (June 5, 2024) – Hoffmann Family of Companies is pleased to announce the court-approved acquisition of Oberweis Dairy. This milestone marks the end of a challenging chapter for the storied family-owned brand, which filed for Chapter 11 reorganization in April 2024.
“We’re grateful to our employees and customers for standing by us during this difficult time,” said Geoff Hoffmann, co-CEO of Hoffmann Family of Companies. “With new financial backing, Oberweis Dairy is poised to continue its legacy as the most trusted name in dairy and beyond.”
The Hoffmann Family of Companies, a multi-vertical, family-owned firm, specializes in partnering with strong management teams and hands-on leaders. Their focus on customer and employee experiences drives sustained value across businesses, and the firm works across companies to provide and share support, insights, opportunities, and best practices.
Plans are already underway to enhance production capabilities and streamline operations in Oberweis Dairy’s manufacturing facilities. Immediate improvements are expected in select locations, including brighter stores and an expanded product selection. The company will soon announce additional Chicagoland market locations and other expansions where Hoffmann-owned companies operate. Notably, there are no plans to close existing locations or make substantial cuts to the business, and the Oberweis Dairy brand name will remain intact.
“Oberweis is primed for growth with the support of Hoffmann Family of Companies,” stated Adam Kraber, President of Oberweis Dairy. “Our customers can look forward to exciting improvements throughout the summer and fall.”
The Hoffmann family’s dairy roots trace back to founder David Hoffmann’s childhood on a Missouri dairy farm. Their extensive experience in acquiring founder-led companies positions them to provide capital for growth and improvements. Most of the companies acquired by Hoffmann Family of Companies continue to be led by their founders, including second and third-generation family leaders.
“The Oberweis acquisition aligns with our core investment philosophy: ‘Invest in good businesses, good properties, good people – all with the potential to be better,’” emphasized Geoff Hoffmann. “We eagerly anticipate delivering smiles to customers and employees for years to come.”
About Hoffmann Family of Companies
Hoffmann Family of 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. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Aviation, Agriculture, Financial Services, Hospitality, Business & Professional Services, Industrial, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing, Real Estate and Transportation.
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.
Dinner Cruise Leader Now Operates 22 Vessels Nationwide
The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies), a US-based family-owned private equity firm, announced today the acquisition of Sip n’ Sail Cruises, a Mackinac Island-based company known for its diverse range of cruises and private charter options around the island. This acquisition enhances Hoffmann Marine’s portfolio, expanding their U.S. dinner cruise operations to a total of 22 vessels across seven states.
“The Hoffmann Family’s reputation in the marine industry is well known and the opportunity to take Sip n’ Sail Cruises to the next level with such a nationally recognized company is a logical fit for us,” said Veronica Dobrowolski, General Manager of Sip n’ Sail Cruises. “We are excited and looking forward to growing their brand and providing greater opportunities for our guests.”
Guests aboard Sip n’ Sail Cruises enjoy 90 minutes of breathtaking panoramic sea views. The fleet features the Robin E, a 55-foot vessel, and the Isle Royale Queen III, an 81-foot vessel equipped with multiple viewing areas, heated cabins, restrooms, a full-service cash bar and live entertainment. Sip n’ Sail Cruises elevates the sailing experience, offering unparalleled photo opportunities as customers glide along the shoreline of Mackinac Island.
Jenny Gezella, President of Hoffmann Marine, remarked, “As soon as Shepler’s Ferry brought me to Mackinac Island, I went straight to see the Sip n’ Sail fleet. Veronica Dobrowolski, Andrew Doud and their team have done an outstanding job delivering first-class cruise experiences, offering guests an intimate view of the island’s beauty. Their operation is a perfect addition to our dinner cruise business, and we are thrilled to welcome Veronica and her team into our family.”
To learn more about Sip n’ Sail Cruises, visit sipnsailcruises.com or call 844.906.9006.
About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies), a multi-vertical family-owned company consisting of over 100 national brands, 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 Sip n’ Sail Cruises:
Sip n’ Sail Cruises is Mackinac Island’s premiere attraction. Enjoy 90 minutes of panoramic views and an unforgettable evening aboard Robin E, a 55’ vessel or Isle Royale Queen III, an 81′ well-appointed vessel with multiple viewing areas, heated cabins, restrooms, a full-service cash bar and live entertainment. Take advantage of amazing photo opportunities as you skirt the shoreline of Mackinac Island, view the elegant Victorian, turn of the century homes, and enjoy a spectacular sunset as you cruise under the Mighty Mackinac Bridge. Whether you are by yourself, on a date or in a group you will have a memorable experience on a Sip n’ Sail Cruise with our experienced and friendly crew.
Cruise tickets are available for purchase online only at sipnsailcruises.com, and we are located at the Coal Dock, between the Taxi Office and Seabiscuit Cafe.
Private charters are also available. The lsle Royale Queen III and Robin E are the perfect venues to create a one-of-a-kind event for your special gathering. Please call for more information.