Hoffmann Family of Companies Adds Loadstar Trailers to Portfolio

News

Hoffmann Family of Companies Adds Loadstar Trailers to Portfolio

October 14, 2025

Strategic partnership aims to strengthen Loadstar's North America reach, accelerate growth

TORONTO (Oct. 3, 2025) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a U.S.-based family equity firm known for its long-term investment philosophy and diversified portfolio, today announced the acquisition of Loadstar Trailers, Inc. (“Loadstar”), Canada’s premier manufacturer of lowboy and heavy-duty trailers. Known for its use of North American-made parts, premium materials, and precision engineering, Loadstar has earned a reputation for delivering custom-built trailers of exceptional quality and durability.

While terms of the transaction were not disclosed, Loadstar will continue to operate under the leadership of Joe Hopper, President and Founder, who retains partial ownership and will remain actively involved in the company’s strategic direction. The acquisition includes Loadstar’s 20,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in the Greater Toronto Area, with plans for future expansion to support growing demand across North America.

Founded in 1993, Loadstar has grown into one of Ontario’s largest manufacturers of heavy-duty trailers, serving industries such as agriculture, construction, logistics, and recreation. The company joins HF Companies’ growing manufacturing vertical, which includes respected trailer brands such as Doonan Specialized Trailer, Texas Bragg, and Bragg Trailers.

Mike Ruddle, CEO of Doonan, will serve as an advisor to Hopper and the Loadstar team, bringing an American market perspective to support the company’s continued growth.

“Mike and Joe are exceptional leaders, and we’re excited by the opportunities ahead as we continue growing our manufacturing vertical,” said Geoff Hoffmann, CEO of the private equity arm of Hoffmann Family of Companies. “What Joe has built over the past three decades is truly impressive, and we’re proud to support him in reaching the next chapter of Loadstar’s growth.”

“I’m excited about this partnership and the future of Loadstar,” added Hopper. “We share a customer-first mindset, deep technical expertise, and complimentary products and customers with our new sister companies, and that alignment will only strengthen our ability to serve clients across North America. Our team is outstanding, and I’m honored to join a group of trailer-makers who take real pride in their craftsmanship and the service we deliver.”

The deal team was led by Clayton Jones, EVP of Business Development and advised by Gowling WLG (Legal). Loadstar was advised by Baker Tilly Canada Capital (M&A) and Dickinson Wright (Legal).

###

About Hoffmann Family of Companies: Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 120 global brands and employs 17,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.

For More Information: [email protected]

More News

Portfolio Company GlobalWorks Selected for Exclusive NYC Event Spotlight

The experiential event agency has been selected to participate in Marriott Bonvoy® Convention & Resort Network’s (“CRN”) Elite Suite Experience, a premier industry showcase spotlighting innovation and excellence in event design.

Hoffmann Under Contract to Acquire Retail Property on Iconic Fifth Ave. S.

Spanning from 465 Fifth Avenue to 494 Fifth Street, the newly acquired property includes five fully leased retail units.

Hoffmann Family Grows Naples Portfolio with Pure Florida Acquisition

Founded in 2009 by father-and-son duo Captains Lance and Harry Julian, Pure Florida represents five generations of maritime expertise and over 25 years of industry experience.

Hoffmann Family of Companies Acquires Olympus Limo

Strategic acquisition expands global transportation network and strengthens luxury service footprint.

Hoffmann Acquires Derby Fabricating Solutions, Expands Manufacturing Portfolio

Derby’s three-state footprint and NVH expertise enhances Hoffmann’s long-term manufacturing strategy.

From Vision to Value: A Conversation with Shawn Thomson of RMC

In this new series, we spotlight businesses within the Hoffmann portfolio, bringing their journeys, challenges, and successes to life in a way that captures their unique contributions.

Hoffmann Media Group Finalizes ‘Telluride Daily Planet’ Deal, Names Maureen Pelisson Publisher

As part of the transition, seasoned media executive Maureen Pelisson has been named Publisher.

Geoff Hoffmann Named a 2025 Notable M&A Dealmaker by Crain’s Chicago Business

This year’s Notable M&A Dealmakers represent a wide range of professionals guiding transformative deals across industries, from private equity and venture capital to manufacturing, health care, energy and beyond.

Hoffmann Media Group Announces Pending Acquisition in Colorado

Hoffmann Media Group to acquire Telluride Daily Planet and related titles in Colorado, expanding its family-owned media portfolio. Closing expected September 12, 2025.

Hoffmann Family of Companies Welcomes Elmer Chocolate to Fast-Growing Portfolio

Elmer’s story began in 1855 and has grown into one of the nation’s premier seasonal chocolatiers—recognized as the largest producer of small heart-shaped chocolate boxes in the United States.

Hoffmann Grows Hospitality Vertical with Atlanta Party Rentals Acquisition

Founded in 2018, Atlanta Party Rentals has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality rental solutions for events of all sizes.

Hoffmann Family of Companies Proposes Equity Investment to Support Recapitalization of Lee Enterprises

HF Companies today confirmed that it has submitted a letter to Lee’s Board of Directors expressing interest in supporting a potential recapitalization of the Company.

Hoffmann Acquires New Naples Property, Grows Augusta Clothing Company

Located in the heart of Naples’ 5th Avenue South, this prime storefront will soon showcase The Augusta Clothing Company’s signature boutique experience.

Hoffmann Announces MAC as Newest Tenant in Pierre Laclede Center

This expansion marks a strategic milestone for the MAC and reinforces Pierre Laclede Center’s position as a premier destination within the St. Louis business community.

Wayne Manufacturing Recognized for Excellence at AAM’s Annual Supplier Day

The manufacturing company earned a 2025 Supplier Excellence Award in the “Launch Performance” category—building on their 2023 recognition for “Quality Performance.”

Hoffmann Family of Companies Expands Portfolio with Acquisition of Cohabit Pod Hotel

The innovative hotel introduces a pod-style lodging experience, the first of its kind in the Vail Valley, offering travelers a cost-effective alternative to traditional mountain resort stays.

Hoffmann Family of Companies Acquires Missourian Media Group

The acquisition of Missourian Publishing Co., owner of The Missourian Media Group, includes Franklin County’s leading newspaper, The Missourian, along with its associated real estate holdings, printing operations, and digital platform, eMissourian.com.

News