The family-owned investment firm is committed to growing the company across existing and new markets
WINNETKA, Ill. (May 29, 2024) – Hoffmann Family of Companies, through its investment arm, Osprey Capital LLC (Osprey), is pleased to announce that Hoffmann Dairy LLC (a subsidiary of Osprey) is the prevailing bidder after today’s auction to acquire Oberweis Dairy (Oberweis), a legacy, family-owned dairy company based in Illinois, in connection with Oberweis’ recently announced Chapter 11 bankruptcy process. The agreement to purchase is subject to approval by the United States Bankruptcy Court, and the terms of the agreement have not been disclosed. This strategic move expands the Hoffmann Family of Companies’ portfolio and reaffirms its commitment to quality and growth.
“We are thrilled to write the next chapter of the company’s story with the wonderful employees at Oberweis Dairy,” said Geoff Hoffmann, co-CEO of Hoffmann Family of Companies. “Their dedication and passion for delivering exceptional dairy products align perfectly with our values.”
The Hoffmann family has a tradition of investing in multi-generational, family-owned businesses. Their decision to invest in Oberweis was driven by the dairy company’s rich history dating back to 1927, strong brand reputation, and alignment with family values. Hoffmann Family of Companies places a premium on investing in world-class enterprises, and Oberweis’ exceptional products and commitment to service have solidified its position as a household name for nearly a century.
“Our exceptional product set, accompanied by a brand that stands for quality that is second to none, is the foundation for our team members and company to write its next chapter,” said Adam Kraber, President of Oberweis Dairy. “We look forward to exciting developments ahead with Hoffmann Family of Companies.”
As part of the acquisition, Hoffmann Family of Companies plans to make strategic investments throughout Oberweis. The Aurora plant, in particular, will receive significant attention to enhance production capabilities and streamline operations.
“A heartfelt thank you to the team members at Oberweis who stuck with the company through this difficult period,” said Geoff Hoffmann. “Together, we will build a stronger, more resilient future for Oberweis Dairy.”
The Hoffmann family’s dairy roots can be traced back to founder David Hoffmann’s early childhood, spent on a dairy farm in Washington, Missouri. The family has extensive experience acquiring founder-led companies to provide them with the capital to fund growth and improvements. Most of the companies acquired by Hoffmann Family of Companies are still led by their founders, including second and third-generation family leaders.
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.
Media Contact
Suzanne Jacob, CMO
[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.
CDN Controls Encompasses 10 Branches, Boasts Over 700 Employees & Harnesses a Robust Fabrication Facility
The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HFOC), a US-based family owned private equity firm, has acquired majority ownership of CDN Controls (CDN)—a leading player in electrical and instrumentation maintenance, automation, communication and renewable/solar services. CDN operates across 10 branches, employs over 700 professionals and manages an expansive fabrication facility.
The Hoffmann Family of Companies is committed to providing CDN Controls with access to capital, new market opportunities and supporting their accelerated growth. The acquisition is aimed at fostering CDN’s autonomy, fortifying its business foundation and creating avenues for seizing new opportunities.
“Hoffmann Family’s decision to purchase CDN was rooted in the alignment of values, culture and business acumen,” said Geoff Hoffmann, Co-CEO of HFOC. “We see our role as a catalyst for CDN’s continued growth rather than an agent of change, preserving CDN’s strategic and daily operational autonomy.”
“When we started CDN in 2011, we wanted to create an industry dominator—and business fueled by performance and anchored by strong core values,” said Dean Fraser, CEO, and Nick Stewart, COO, both original founders of CDN. “An investment from the Hoffmann Family of Companies will allow our business to seize newer and bigger opportunities. On the horizon are significant opportunities to put our services to good use in the global energy transition—specifically massive improvements and innovations to global energy infrastructure. As the demand grows for large-scale players to undertake this work, the Hoffmann Family of Companies will help to position CDN in that space.”
In addition, CDN also announced today their intention to penetrate the US market. Those operations will occur under the name CAVIS (kay-vis) Energy Corp. Canadian operations will remain under the name CDN.
The CDN Executive Team will be comprised of Dean Fraser, serving as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Founder, Nick Stewart as Chief Operating Officer (COO) & Founder, David Gillett as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Susan Borrows as Chief People & Corporate Services Officer (CPCSO).
For media inquiries, please contact:
Jessica Carruth
Director, Communications & PR
[email protected]
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 CDN Controls:
CDN is Western Canada’s leader in electrical and instrumentation maintenance, automation, communication, and renewable/solar services. United by a vision to become a globally recognized business celebrated for our tenacious full-service approach in relentless pursuit of industry dominance, CDN’s collective team of more than 700 employees and contractors are committed to the highest standards in performance, measurement, and safety — and, above all, pride in a job well done. With 10 branches, six formal Indigenous partnerships, and a history of building impactful relationships, CDN delivers systems that perform.
50-Year-Old Company Encompasses Footprint of 57 Dealer Locations
In a significant move underscoring Hoffmann Family of Companies’ (HFOC) commitment to manufacturing and continued growth, the organization has successfully acquired Doonan Specialized Trailer, LLC (Doonan)—a renowned custom semi-trailer manufacturer based in Great Bend, Kansas.
With a distinguished history spanning five decades, Doonan has become synonymous with excellence in designing and producing specialized trailers tailored to the unique requirements of owner-operators.
Doonan has established a robust network of over 57 dealer locations across North America, making it a key player in the transportation industry. The company’s focus on delivering high-quality, custom-designed products with features and options unmatched by high-volume manufacturers sets it apart in the market.
“As we continue to grow our network, our venture with Doonan is an affirmation of our belief in the future of American Manufacturing,” said Geoff Hoffmann, Co-CEO at Hoffmann Family of Companies. “Doonan is a great fit for the Hoffmann Family of Companies, and we have tremendous confidence in the proven management team and the positive culture fostered throughout the company. We are excited for our future success as the team continues to operate and expand the business.”
Mike Ruddle, Vice President of Operations at Doonan, and Kelly Zecha, National Dealer Manager / Application Specialist, will both continue to play pivotal roles post-close, ensuring a seamless transition and continuity in serving customers with excellence.
“We are thrilled to be joining the Hoffmann Family of Companies to expand on the success of Doonan built over the past 50 years,” said Mike Ruddle, VP of Operations at Doonan Specialized Trailer.
The Doonan acquisition expands HFOC’s presence in the transportation sector, building on the 2021 purchase of Texas Bragg Trailers, based in Mt. Pleasant, Texas. Established in 1977, Texas Bragg Trailers offers a selection of trailers through their expansive dealer network in 21 states.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Jessica Carruth
Director, Communications & PR
[email protected]
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, Marine, Media & Marketing, Real Estate, and Transportation. For more information, visit: www.hfcompanies.com.
About Doonan Specialized Trailer:
Established in 1973, Doonan Specialized Trailer has been at the forefront of designing and building specialized trailers, including custom flatbeds, drop decks, double drops, oilfield trailers, extendibles and RGN lowbeds. The company’s commitment to delivering “Best in Class” solutions through its extensive Dealer Network further emphasizes its dedication to meeting the specialized needs of owner operators. Learn more at www.doonan.com.
Adding to the Leadership Team to Oversee the Augusta Winery, Balducci Vineyards, Montelle Winery and Mt. Pleasant Estates
In a strategic move to elevate the Augusta Wineries to new heights, Hoffmann Family of Companies (HFOC) proudly announces the appointment of Tom Fuchs as General Manager. Fuchs brings over three decades of executive management experience in the wine industry and a wealth of product sales and distribution knowledge.
As General Manager of the Augusta Wineries, Fuchs will spearhead efforts to elevate the wineries to new levels by implementing best practices and ensuring the existing winery teams are well-equipped for success. This move aligns with HFOC’s commitment to continuous improvement and delivering unparalleled experiences to its patrons. Don Simon will be focused on the landscape and agricultural businesses at Hoffmann Hillermann and Town and Country Nurseries, as well as future agricultural acquisitions. He will also transition the leasing and sale of non-winery related businesses.
Fostering a positive and thriving work environment for all Augusta team members is a primary goal of this new strategic reorganization, and there are no plans for layoffs or team changes. Our business objective is to strengthen HFOC’s position in the industry and enhance the overall success of the wineries.
“We are excited to welcome Tom to the Hoffmann Family, and we have full confidence in his ability to take the Augusta Wineries to new heights,” said David Hoffmann, Chairman at Hoffmann Family of Companies. “This is a positive step forward for us, reinforcing our dedication to excellence and innovation in the winery industry, and our investment in Augusta. We are grateful to Don for all his work supporting our growth to date.”
Fuchs, a St. Louis native, is an alumnus of Christian Brothers H.S. and of St. Louis University’s School of Commerce & Finance. He brings a wealth of leadership experience, having been President of three nationally distributed Beverage Companies, and has served on the boards of several companies and organizations, including the Alexander Valley Winegrowers Association, MOSAIC Vineyards & Winery, Greater Madison (WI) Convention & Visitors Bureau and Capital Brewery. His contributions as a
nationally syndicated wine columnist further showcase his commitment to the industry.
Hoffmann Family of Companies expresses its continued dedication to Augusta, emphasizing that this leadership transition signifies a renewed focus on the wineries’ growth while maintaining the town’s vibrant tourism offerings. Learn more about our vineyards at VisitAugustaMO.com.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Jessica Carruth
Director, Communications & PR
[email protected]
About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
The Hoffmann Family of Companies holds within its portfolio 90 brands, over 200 pieces of property in the United States, 300 locations globally in 26 countries and employs more than 9,000 people worldwide.
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.
National expansion continues: totaling 10 water sports rental properties and continued growth in the hospitality sector
Marco Island & Naples Beach Water Sports, a subsidiary of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, today announced its latest milestone with the acquisition of Young Harris Water Sports & RV (Young Harris). This strategic move comes just three years after Marco Island & Naples Beach Water Sports successfully acquired Regency Water Sports, marking the beginning of a thoroughly planned national expansion that includes opportunities for the establishment of watersport rental properties in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Hawaii and beyond.
Since its inception in 2002, Young Harris has been dedicated to delivering the highest quality in water sports equipment, coupled with exceptional customer service. Beyond offering premium boat and jet ski rentals, Young Harris is also Georgia’s premier source for parts and service, new and used boat sales and wake shop supplies. The organization will continue to operate under the leadership of its current president, Lance Markham.
“We are excited to extend a warm welcome to Young Harris as the newest addition to the Hoffmann Family of Companies,” stated Mark Bahr, president of Marco Island & Naples Beach Water Sports. “Lance will not only lead the day-to-day operations of the organization but will also play a pivotal role in shaping our future growth in the region.”
Young Harris is also the exclusive water sports recreation provider to The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds at Lake Oconee, symbolizing the highest level of service excellence and experiences in the industry. In addition to its Lake Oconee location, Young Harris also runs a rental center at Lake Chatuge. Furthermore, for customers interested in purchasing, Young Harris owns two RV dealerships, ensuring that buyers receive the same exceptional level of service and quality for parts, services and sales as provided to its rental customers.
“This acquisition provides our company with expanded access to resources, enhances our operational capabilities and grants us the financial means to upgrade equipment or venture into new rental opportunities,” said Lance Markham, president of Young Harris Water Sports & RV. “We view this as a mutually beneficial development for our dedicated employees, valued customers and esteemed investors.”
Guests can find exceptional holiday season savings on closeout models of boats and RVs when they visit one of Young Harris’ two dealership locations. Alternatively, they can guarantee their current equipment is well-prepared for the 2024 season by scheduling an appointment with Young Harris’ expert service center.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Jessica Carruth
Director, Communications & Operations
Hoffmann Creative Agency
[email protected]
About Marco Island & Naples Beach Water Sports:
Marco Island Water Sports & Naples Beach Water Sports, part of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, has provided water sports adventures in Southwest Florida since 1981. The organization offers a variety of outings including 10,000 Island Guided WaveRunner Tours, 49-passenger Catamaran Eco-Cruises, Parasailing, WaveRunner rentals, Chair and Umbrella Service, Banana Boat Rides and other water sports activities. The business provides services to beach visitors as well as hotel guests at Marco Island’s three major hotels: JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort, Hilton Marco Island Beach Resort and Spa and Marriott’s Crystal Shores; as well as is also the exclusive partner to the world-renowned Ritz-Carlton at Vanderbilt Beach—and will be opening soon at LaPlaya Beach & Golf Resort for the 2024 season.
For more information visit: www.marcoislandwatersports.com
About Young Harris Water Sports & RV:
Since 2002, Young Harris Water Sports has provided its customers with the highest quality water sports equipment matched with unparalleled customer service. In addition to its top-of-the-line watercraft rental service, it is also Georgia’s premier source for parts and service, new and used boat sales and wake shop supplies.
For more information visit: www.yhwatersports.com or www.yhmarineandrv.com
About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
The Hoffmann Family of Companies holds within its portfolio 90 brands, over 200 pieces of property in the United States, 300 locations globally in 26 countries and employs more than 9,000 people worldwide.
For more information visit: www.hfcompanies.com
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