Acquisition Archives - Hoffmann Family of Companies

With Two Additional Winnetka Properties Under Contract, HCRE Continues to Solidify Its Role as the Largest Landlord in the Region

Winnetka, IL (Dec. 23, 2024) — Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), part of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, is proud to announce the acquisition of 10 new properties and one new property under contract. Nine of the newly acquired properties are current Oberweis Ice Cream & Dairy Store locations being purchased from the Oberweis family, with the tenth — 510 Winnetka Avenue — set to become a new store location.

These strategic acquisitions reinforce HCRE’s ongoing commitment to Oberweis, securing these properties as long-term assets and supporting the brand’s expansion across the country with new store locations.

“We are thrilled to announce our latest acquisitions and the new Oberweis ice cream store location in Winnetka,” said Greg Hoffmann, Principal & CEO of HCRE. “This milestone further enhances the national expansion of Oberweis Ice Cream and supports the growth of this iconic brand. It also represents a positive step forward for the communities involved.”

The newly acquired locations are:

510 Winnetka Ave, Winnetka, IL 60093 (new Oberweis Ice Cream & Dairy Store location coming soon!)
925 S Route 59, Bartlett, IL 60103
338 W. Army Trail Road, Bloomingdale, IL 60108
2105 N. Veterans Parkway, Bloomington, IL 61704
4568 & 4590 Telegraph Road, Oakville, MO 63129
1816 Highway K, O’Fallon, MO 63366
7202 W. 159th Street, Orland Park, IL 60462
1735 Algonquin Road, Rolling Meadows, IL 60008
30 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg, IL 60193
1790 West Main Street, St. Charles, IL 60174

In addition, HCRE is under contract to acquire 530 Winnetka Avenue, further expanding its presence in the area. These acquisitions strengthen Hoffmann’s position as the largest landlord in Winnetka and underscore its continued investment in the community.

Greg Hoffmann added, “With our contract to acquire 530 Winnetka Avenue, we are excited to further enhance the area and continue supporting the businesses and residents that make Winnetka such a remarkable area.”

HCRE’s diverse portfolio features retail, commercial and office spaces, multi-family housing, industrial properties and land under development. Dedicated to upgrading each property to a Class “A+” standard, HCRE’s portfolio is valued at over $1 billion.

HCRE is experiencing rapid growth, building a portfolio that includes both stabilized and value-added assets in prime locations across the country. 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 the Hoffmann Family of 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.

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 16,000 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.

Western Canadian Energy Services Leader Acquires the Dallas and Odessa-Based Business to Expand Services Into the United States

Calgary, CA (DEC. 9, 2024) – CDN Controls ULC, part of the Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies), Western Canada’s leading provider in electrical and instrumentation, automation, renewable/solar services, and major construction services, announced today that it has acquired Dallas and Odessa-based Superior Optimization.

As part of the acquisition, a transition process will be undertaken to align business processes, which will include the relocation of the head office to Houston, TX, while maintaining all services in the current branch locations in Fort Worth, Odessa, and New Mexico. Additionally, the business will undergo a brand transition to the name CAVIS (kay-vis) Energy.

The acquisition is the result of an intentional, strategic pivot for CDN that began in March 2024, when CDN was acquired by the Hoffmann Family of Companies, a US-based, family-owned, private equity group. A central driver of the Hoffmann-CDN acquisition was to provide capacity and capital for CDN to seize new opportunities in new markets. Today’s acquisition is the realization of this vision—and the first of several planned expansions.

“There is an opportunity for CDN to be a global player and industry dominator,” said Dean Fraser, CEO and Co-Founder, CDN. “The market-driven focus and strong foundational core values of Superior Optimization are similar to CDN, and we are excited to work alongside their leadership and talented industry professionals to provide energy services in this dynamic US market.”

“CDN understands that there are significant opportunities in the energy services space, and the market is ready for a provider that understands the improvements and innovations ahead for the global energy infrastructure,” said Geoff Hoffmann, Co-CEO, Hoffmann Family of Companies. “As the demand grows for large-scale players to undertake this work, we are pleased to see CDN’s entrance into the United States to seize these opportunities. We welcome Superior Optimization to the family and look forward to its transition to CAVIS Energy.”

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 750 employees and contractors are committed to the highest standards in performance, measurement, and safety — and, above all, pride in a job well done. With 11 branches, six formal Indigenous partnerships, and a history of building impactful relationships, CDN delivers systems that perform. For more information, visit: www.cdncontrols.ca.

About Superior Optimization
As an Energy & Industrial Service provider, Superior Optimization leverages strong internal synergies to deliver turn-key solutions across a wide array of industries throughout Texas, New Mexico, and the Southwest US. Their capabilities include embedded technicians, design, Electrical and Instrumentation construction and project management, panel manufacturing, installation/commissioning, system integration, maintenance, repair, and capital project support. As the world becomes increasingly automated, Superior Optimization helps customers connect with their field assets to obtain better visibility and analytics. For more information, visit: supopt.com.

Naples, FL (Nov. 1, 2024) — The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies) proudly announces the acquisition of Dolphin Transportation Specialists, a leading transportation provider with a fleet of over 165 vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, vans, Mercedes Sprinters, minibusses, and motor coaches.

Dolphin Transportation, founded by Francis Papps and Tim Rose, operates out of Naples, Florida, with additional locations in Miami, Tampa/Sarasota, Fort Myers and Marco Island. Tim Rose, a respected industry veteran, will continue to lead Dolphin as President and will also assume the role of President of Hoffmann Transportation Enterprises. In his expanded role, Tim will collaborate with Tamir Rankow and Randy Smith, Directors of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, to drive future acquisitions and enhance customer service offerings across the transportation portfolio.

(From Left) Tamir Rankow, Tim Rose, David Hoffmann, Randy Smith

“Dolphin Transportation began in 1994 on Nantucket Island, Massachusetts, and has grown into one of the largest operators in the country,” said Tim Rose. “Joining forces with the Hoffmann Family of Companies represents an exciting chapter for our team. We look forward to leveraging their expertise and resources to elevate the luxury transportation experience for our valued clients.”

Tim Rose currently serves on the National Limousine Association, Florida Limousine Association and the Chauffeured Transportation Association of New Jersey Boards, and previously served as President of the Chauffeured Transportation Association of New Jersey for many years.

Dolphin Transportation specializes in premium transportation and coordination services for large events, groups and corporate clients nationwide. The company has expanded its reach through strategic acquisitions, including SRQ Transportation in Sarasota in 2020 and Key Transportation in Miami in 2021.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dolphin Transportation Specialists into the Hoffmann family,” said Randy Smith, Director of the Hoffmann Family of Companies. “Their reputation for excellence aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering exceptional service across all our business ventures.”

With this acquisition, the Hoffmann Family of Companies solidifies its position as the largest private owner-operator of a Black Car vehicle fleet in the United States, offering comprehensive services across major cities, including Dallas, Miami, Tampa, Naples, Fort Myers, Sarasota, Marco Island, Napa and Sonoma Valley, San Francisco, St. Louis, Augusta, Missouri, and Aspen, Colorado.

Media Contact
Jessica Carruth
Director, Communications & PR
[email protected]
239.396.7474

Fort Myers, FL (Oct 29, 2024) — Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies) announced today that it has increased its share ownership in Lee Enterprises Inc. In conjunction with the Securities and Exchange Commission rules and regulations, the company has filed a 13D amendment.

HF Companies believes the current investment places their ownership position behind Quint Digital, the largest shareholder. The company has plans to further invest in Lee Enterprises as market conditions present themselves. JPMorgan Chase is advising HF Companies on its strategy.

According to Bloomberg, the Jerrilyn M. Hoffmann Revocable Trust reported a 6.7% holding in Lee Enterprises Inc., equivalent to $6.85 million. A previous 13D filed on October 17, 2024, showed a 5.22% stake. Shares of Lee Enterprises have gained 21% since October 17, 2024, compared with the 0.6% drop in the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index.

Lee Enterprises Inc., the fourth-largest newspaper company in the U.S., operates in 26 states and owns 77 newspapers nationwide, including the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, which attracted the interest of founder David Hoffmann.

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, newspapers, and magazines across Florida, California, 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. For more information, visit www.hfcompanies.com.

Media Contact
Jessica Carruth
Director, Communications & PR
[email protected]
239.396.7474

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 14^th 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.