ST. LOUIS (June 29, 2026) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”) today announced the proposed acquisition of six radio brands in St. Louis from Audacy, Inc. (“Audacy”), including KMOX (1120 AM / 104.1 FM), widely known as the “Trusted Voice of St. Louis.” The transaction remains subject to FCC approval. 

“This is a deliberate step to accelerate the expansion of our media platform and establish it as one of the largest print and digital news organizations in the United States,” said David Hoffmann, Founder and Chairman of HF Companies. “We are building a scaled, multi-platform network that combines print, digital, and broadcast to deliver trusted journalism and meaningful community connection. Talk radio is a natural extension of that vision and a powerful driver of our long-term growth.” 

Hoffmann’s media portfolio has expanded significantly, establishing a broad, coast-to-coast presence. Collectively, his media assets now operate in 30 states, producing 154 newspapers in 154 cities. The addition of the six radio brands marks his initial expansion into broadcast, with plans for continued growth in the sector. 

Today, the portfolio operates under two primary platforms: Lee Enterprises (Nasdaq: LEE), where Hoffmann serves as Chairman and holds a controlling stake, and Hoffmann Media Group. 

  • Lee Enterprises is a leading provider of local news and information and a major subscription and advertising platform, with daily and weekly newspapers and rapidly expanding digital products serving 114 markets across 25 states.  
  • Hoffmann Media Group complements this scale with a portfolio of 40 publications across six states, focused on delivering trusted reporting, compelling storytelling, and hyperlocal content that reflects the unique character of the communities it serves. 

Hoffmann added, “With our planned acquisitions, combined with our existing portfolio of 154 newspapers and our expansion into radio, we expect to become the second-largest media company in the United States by year-end.” 

The Audacy deal comes at a pivotal moment for Hoffmann’s media portfolio. Last month, Hoffmann entered into a management agreement with Lee Enterprises to bring Hoffmann Media Group under the Lee umbrella, effectively aligning and integrating the two platforms.  

As part of Audacy’s portfolio, KMOX has a long and storied history in sports broadcasting and serves as the flagship station for both the St. Louis Cardinals; KYKY broadcasts St. Louis City SC games. As part of the proposed transaction, Hoffmann has also brought back Becky Domyan as Market President for the Greater St. Louis brands. 

Domyan was previously with Audacy, serving as SVP/Market Manager of Audacy St. Louis and Wichita. During her tenure, she earned recognition as a Missouri Athletic Club “Woman of Distinction” and KMOX received a National Murrow Award for News Excellence. In 2025, during KMOX’s 100th anniversary year, she led the expansion of the station onto FM distribution. She also successfully negotiated and secured the company’s sports play-by-play contracts that are still in place today, including the partnerships with the St. Louis Cardinals and St. Louis City SC. 

Hoffmann’s acquisition includes the following stations: 

  • 104.1 FM KMOX (KMOX-FM/KMOX-AM) – News/Talk 
  • 97.1 FM Talk (KFTK-FM) – News/Talk 
  • Y98 (KYKY-FM) – Hot Adult Contemporary 
  • 102.5 KEZK (KEZK-FM) – Adult Contemporary 
  • 96.3 R&B (WFUN-FM) – Urban Adult Contemporary 
  • Hot 98.7 (WHHL-FM) – Hip-Hop/R&B 

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:

Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of more than 200 brands, employing more than 27,000 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.

About Audacy: 

Audacy is a leading audio content and entertainment company. As champions of audio, we connect with people in the moments that matter — delivering trusted local news, passionate sports and your favorite music across 220+ radio stations, premium podcasts, live events and digital experiences that reach more than 200 million listeners every month. 

We create compelling content, foster deeply engaged audiences and deliver outcomes that matter for advertisers. Learn more at www.audacyinc.com and join the conversation on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram. 

For More Information: [email protected]; [email protected]

Family-Owned Firm Officially Adding Iconic NHL Franchise to Growing Portfolio

PITTSBURGH/CHICAGO (June 23, 2026) — Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), the U.S.-based family-owned firm, today announced it has received unanimous approval from the NHL Board of Governors to acquire the Pittsburgh Penguins, one of the National Hockey League’s most storied and celebrated franchises. The transaction is expected to close imminently; financial terms were not disclosed.

Geoff Hoffmann, CEO of HF Companies’ Private Equity arm will serve as Governor. Greg Hoffmann, CEO of the firm’s Real Estate arm; Kyle Dubas, General Manager & President of Hockey Operations of the Pittsburgh Penguins; and David Hoffmann, Founder & Chairman of HF Companies, will each serve as Alternate Governors.

“This is a defining moment for our family,” said Geoff Hoffmann, incoming Governor of the Pittsburgh Penguins. “The Penguins represent everything Hoffmann Family of Companies stands for — community, excellence and long-term thinking. We look forward to building on the team’s success by providing support and resources to both Kyle Dubas and the hockey operations team, as well as the established leadership group on the business side. We’re proud to represent this storied franchise and are eager to become an active, invested part of the Pittsburgh community.”

The acquisition marks HF Companies’ most significant investment to date and deepens an already-growing presence in Western Pennsylvania. The firm owns Viking Plastics, headquartered in Corry, Pennsylvania, and DHR Global, a leading executive search firm headquartered in Chicago with offices in both Pittsburgh and Philadelphia.

Founded in 1989 by family patriarch David Hoffmann, HF Companies has grown into a global enterprise spanning more than 200 brands across 400 locations in 30 countries, employing more than 27,000 people. With primary hubs in Chicago, Naples and St. Louis, the firm has completed five acquisitions in the current calendar year, a pace that reflects its ambition and financial strength.

Hockey isn’t new to the Hoffmann family — it’s personal. They also own the Florida Everblades, the five-time Kelly Cup champions competing in the ECHL. In 2022, Geoff and his wife Megan founded Type 1 Timer Hockey, the only hockey camp in the United States designed specifically for youth living with Type 1 diabetes. Inspired by their son Henry’s diagnosis at age seven, the camp has grown from 40 to nearly 150 campers and is held annually at Hertz Arena, home of the Everblades.

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:

Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 200 global brands and employs 27,000 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: Rachel Berkowitz, [email protected] | Jennifer Bullano Ridgley, [email protected]

MILWAUKEE / CHICAGO (June 15, 2026) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”) today announced its acquisition of Cedar Crest Ice Cream (“Cedar Crest”), an iconic, multi-generational dairy business with deep roots across the Midwest. Headquartered in Winnetka, Illinois, HF Companies also owns Oberweis Dairy—another beloved regional brand known for its quality and heritage. 

Led for more than 50 years by the Kohlwey brothers—Ken, Robert, Bill, and Tim—the business will remain in family stewardship through the Hoffmann family. As part of the transaction, Renato DePaolis, CEO of Oberweis Dairy, will assume leadership of Cedar Crest, bringing together two heritage brands with longstanding reputations for quality. 

“It’s not lost on me that Cedar Crest is a 50-year-old brand and Oberweis is approaching its 100th anniversary serving Midwest communities and families,” said DePaolis. “Together, we represent more than 150 years of rich ice cream history, which is a legacy that is both meaningful and worth celebrating as we look to the future.” 

“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve built,” said Ken Kohlwey. “My brothers and I wouldn’t hand over the reins to just anyone. When we saw what the Hoffmann family has accomplished with Oberweis in such a short time, we knew we could trust them to continue to grow our beloved business as we enter the sweetest chapter in our lives: Retirement.”

Founded in 1976 and headquartered in Cedarburg, Wisconsin, Cedar Crest is deeply rooted in a generational dairy tradition that began with the Kohlwey family’s parents. Its manufacturing plant and the Cedar Crest Ice Cream Parlor—both located in Manitowoc, Wisconsin—have become landmark destinations for locals and visitors alike. 

Today, Cedar Crest offers a broad portfolio of frozen desserts, including more than 80 ice cream flavors, 10 custard varieties, six sherbets, and three dairy-free sorbets. Oberweis has experienced significant growth under Hoffmann ownership, and Cedar Crest represents another opportunity to continue expanding within the category. 

HF Companies will continue to operate Cedar Crest and Oberweis as distinct brands under its broader portfolio. For more information, please visit their respective websites: cedarcresticecream.com and oberweis.com. 

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:

Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of more than 200 brands, employing more than 27,000 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]

Latest addition to Hoffmann family complements existing luxury travel brands in portfolio

NEW YORK/DUBLIN (May 4, 2026) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a family-owned private equity firm based in the United States, today announced the planned acquisition of SteamLine Luggage (“SteamLine”), a global luxury luggage brand headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, known for its vintage‑inspired designs, exceptional craftsmanship, and premium materials.

Founded in 2008 by CEO Sara Banks, SteamLine Luggage was born from a simple but powerful insight: luggage should be both beautiful and exceptionally well‑made. After extensive global travel, Banks set out to reintroduce elegance to modern journeys—creating suitcases that function not only as travel essentials, but as personal accessories reflective of each traveler’s style. What began as four thoughtfully designed, vintage‑inspired pieces has grown into a full portfolio of meticulously crafted collections beloved by travelers worldwide.

SteamLine has earned a devoted following among influencers and celebrities alike, with supporters including Margot Robbie and Reese Witherspoon, and has become a standout brand at the intersection of fashion, function, and nostalgia.

“I love this brand,” said David Hoffmann, Founder and Chairman of Hoffmann Family of Companies. “At Hoffmann, we invest in quality—whether that’s people, brands, products, or services. SteamLine embodies that philosophy in a very tangible way, and that makes it especially meaningful to us.”

“What impressed us most about SteamLine is the strength of the brand and the opportunity to scale it thoughtfully,” said Mark Russell, CEO of Linstol, another Hoffmann Family of Companies portfolio business. “Sara has built an exceptional product, and we’re excited to help support its next chapter as part of the Hoffmann family.”

SteamLine Luggage products are also available at The Augusta Clothing Company’s Naples location, 601 5th Avenue South, Naples, Florida. To learn more, visit https://steamlineluggage.com.

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:

Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of more than 200 brands, employing more than 26,000 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]

Newest acquisition strengthens family office’s hospitality and entertainment platform

CHICAGO/MEMPHIS (May 1, 2026) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a family-owned private equity firm based in the United States, is pleased to announce the acquisition of LEO Events (“LEO”), a leading event agency serving the experiential industry.

Founded in 2012, LEO Events has grown from a boutique firm in Memphis, Tennessee, into one of the top event agencies in North America. The company is known for its fresh, fearless creativity, inventive execution, and deeply collaborative approach, delivering high-impact experiential events for some of the world’s most recognizable brands, executives, and organizations. Today, the agency employs more than 100 full-time professionals, operates nationwide, and maintains key offices in Memphis, Nashville, and Chattanooga, Tennessee, along with a presence in Asheville, North Carolina.

Principals Cindy Brewer, Kent Underwood, and Kevin Brewer will retain minority equity interest, and Kent Underwood and Kevin Brewer will lead day-to-day operations as Co-CEOs.

“After more than 13 years of building LEO alongside my co-founders, I know there’s no better partner than Hoffmann Family of Companies to take us to the next level,” said Cindy Brewer. “We’re confident this partnership will accelerate our growth while preserving the culture and creativity that define who we are.”

“Cindy, Kevin, Kent, and their team have built a remarkable company with an exceptional reputation for creativity, execution, and client service,” said Geoff Hoffmann, CEO of HF Companies’ private equity arm. “LEO expands our footprint into new geographies and brings new, premier capabilities we’ve been seeking for our portfolio. We’re thrilled about what we can accomplish together.”

“This is an exciting moment for us as entrepreneurs – and for our entire team,” added Kent Underwood. “With Hoffmann Family of Companies as our partner, we remain focused on our clients, our people, and the culture that makes LEO truly special.”

LEO scales a full suite of services—including Strategy, Creative, Design, Experiential, Entertainment, Meetings, Technology, Operations, Festivals & Public Events, and Activations—to deliver top-tier programs for clients such as AutoZone, Domino’s, Hilton, MassMutual, PGA of America, Sherwin-Williams, and Walmart. Beyond client work, LEO is committed to employee, industry, and community engagement in many ways, including its LEO Gives initiative, which supports communities through volunteering, in-kind contributions, and partnerships, and its LEO Fellows talent development program with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

With the addition of LEO, HF Companies continues to grow and elevate its Hospitality & Entertainment vertical, particularly building on the success of other events-focused holdings such as Colorado-based RMC and Southwest Florida–headquartered GlobalWorks. This strategic expansion reinforces the firm’s commitment to setting a new standard for immersive, full-service experiential offerings.

PricewaterhouseCoopers Corporate Finance LLC served as financial advisor to LEO Events, LLC.

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:

Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of more than 200 brands, employing more than 26,000 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]

ST. LOUIS (April 2, 2026) – Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (“HCRE”), the real estate arm of Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), has expanded its presence in Greater St. Louis with the acquisition of a prominent retail property in downtown Clayton, located at 1 N Central Avenue.

“We’re excited to add 1 N Central to our expanding St. Louis portfolio,” said Greg Hoffmann, CEO of Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate. “This acquisition aligns perfectly with our investment strategy, combining a premier location with strong market fundamentals. It presented a compelling opportunity for our team, and we remain focused on identifying additional investments throughout the surrounding market.”

HCRE maintains a strong footprint across the St. Louis metropolitan area and throughout Missouri, with more than 30 properties statewide. The acquisition of 1 N Central brings together prime location and strong tenancy, supported by long-term leases and favorable market fundamentals.

In 2024, HCRE acquired Pierre Laclede Center, further solidifying its role as a premier business hub in Clayton. In Summer 2025, the firm welcomed Missouri Athletic Club (“MAC”) as one of the building’s newest tenants—a strategic milestone for MAC and a testament to Pierre Laclede Center’s position as a leading destination in the St. Louis business community.

HCRE continues to build momentum with a diverse portfolio of stabilized and value‑add assets in premier markets. Its holdings span California, Canada, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin. Learn more at hoffmanncre.com.

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About Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate

Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), one of two strategic arms within 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.

About Hoffmann Family of Companies

Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 125 global brands and employs more than 26,000 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]

Fourth-Generation Pacific Northwest Grower Accelerates Hoffmann’s Expansion into a New Region and Positions the Firm Among America’s Largest Greenhouse Producers

BELLINGHAM, Wash. (Jan. 29, 2026) — Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a family-owned private equity firm based in the United States, is pleased to announce it has acquired a majority interest in Smith Gardens, a family-owned and operated greenhouse growing company headquartered in Bellingham, Wash.

In 2026, Smith Gardens celebrates 125 years of growing plants in the Pacific Northwest. Today, the company is led by the fourth generation of the Smith family—Eric and Mark Smith—with members of the fifth generation already actively involved. Smith Gardens will continue under Eric and Mark’s leadership, as they retain partial ownership and remain in their leadership roles guiding the company’s strategic direction.

Smith Gardens operates five major growing facilities across the Pacific Northwest and California, including:

  • Bellingham, Wash.
  • Mount Vernon, Wash.
  • Marysville, Wash.
  • Aurora, Ore.
  • Watsonville, Calif. (home of Pacific Plug & Liner)

This strategic partnership expands HF Companies’ rapidly growing agricultural vertical into a new geographic region, complementing its existing holdings in California, Florida, Illinois, Missouri, and Mexico.

Smith Gardens operates more than four million square feet of greenhouse, with over one hundred acres of outdoor production space, and employs 1,200 people. In addition to producing and delivering annual and perennial ornamental plants, the company also operates a merchandising service division.

The acquisition also includes Pacific Plug & Liner, Smith Gardens’ young plant propagation division. Located nine miles from Monterey Bay, Pacific Plug & Liner uses its ideal coastal climate to produce specialty plugs and liners in 250,000 square feet of greenhouse space. This part of the company is known for perennials, innovative young plant varieties, and trend-driven programs that support customer and retail success.

Greg Hoffmann, CEO of Hoffmann Family of Companies’ Real Estate arm, stated: “We are very proud to have Smith Gardens join our agriculture vertical and to add another outstanding family-owned business to our portfolio. Eric, Mark, and their team have built a remarkable company, and we believe they will achieve even greater success with expanded resources, invested capital, and the support system we provide.”

Eric Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Smith Gardens, commented: “When we met the Hoffmann family, it quickly became clear that they value long-term relationships, customer focus, and growing a great team—just as we do. As we considered a partner for the next phase of our growth, culture was a top priority, and we found the right alignment here. Mark and I are honored to remain at the helm and maintain the continuity that began with our great-grandfather and has guided our family through every generation.”

Mark Smith, Chief Planning Officer, added: “We’ve been familiar with the impressive companies within Hoffmann’s agricultural vertical. We see a bright future in partnership with the Hoffmann family as we continue to uphold our mission—‘Our Business is Growing.’ People, Plants, and Opportunity. Together, we’ll keep delivering the quality and service our customers know and trust.”

The deal team was led by Clayton Jones. For more information on the family office, visit HFCompanies.com.

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:

Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 125 global brands and employs more than 22,000 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.

About Smith Gardens:

At Smith Gardens, growing is more than a business, it’s a purpose. Founded in the Pacific Northwest, Smith Gardens is celebrating its 125th anniversary in 2026. Today, the company is operated by the fourth generation of the Smith family, with the fifth generation actively involved. Smith Gardens employs more than 1,200 people and operates over 4 million square feet of greenhouse and over one hundred acres of outdoor production space. In addition to producing and delivering annual and perennial ornamental plants, the company also operates a merchandising service and a young plant division. For more information, visit SmithGardens.com and www.PPandL.com.

About the Hoffmann Agricultural Vertical:

This rapidly growing area of investment for HF Companies produces herbs, wine, fresh plants, flowers, golf products, and dairy products. The family’s holdings represent close to 5,500 acres of land, including:

  • California:
    • Bay Area Herbs & Specialties
    • Smith Gardens
  • Florida:
    • American Farms
    • Old Collier Golf Club
    • Old Corkscrew Golf Club (Pandion Club)
    • Kaleidoscope Florist
    • Topiary Creations
  • Illinois
    • Hoffmann Heimos Greenhouses
    • Meyer Farms
    • Millstadt Young Plants
    • World Wide Farms
  • Mexico
    • World Wide Farms
  • Missouri:
    • Augusta Winery
    • Balducci Vineyards
    • Ferguson Valley Nurseries
    • Hoffmann Heimos Greenhouses
    • Hoffmann Hillerman Nursery
    • Knoernschild Vineyards
    • Micky’s Minis
    • Montelle Vineyards
    • Mount Pleasant Estates
    • Town & Country Nursery
  • Oregon:
    • Smith Gardens
  • Washington:
    • Smith Gardens

For More Information: [email protected]

Local publisher David Cook will continue to run day-to-day operations

ASPEN, Colo. (Dec. 30, 2025) — Today, Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), through its media division Hoffmann Media Group, has acquired Aspen Daily News and will support the publication’s continued independent operation under its existing local leadership. The Hoffmanns have deep personal ties to Aspen and, through this purchase, are investing in the paper’s long-term stability while keeping its newsroom, leadership, and editorial independence firmly rooted in the Roaring Fork Valley. 

Under the agreement, publisher David Cook will continue to lead all day-to-day operations, ensuring continuity in the paper’s mission, newsroom culture, and commitment to the community it has served since 1978. 

“This paper has always belonged to Aspen,” Cook said. “Our job is—and always has been—to hold power accountable, tell the stories that matter and reflect the character of the Roaring Fork Valley. This acquisition gives us the stability to keep doing that work at the highest level, with the same independence and local leadership our readers expect.” 

Cook emphasized that the newsroom remains unchanged, including editorial decision-making, staffing, coverage priorities, and the paper’s famously unvarnished voice. 

The Hoffmanns bring both resources and a long-standing personal connection to the valley, rooted in decades of visits and the many memories made together over the years. Their investments include CTS Aspen, the valley’s premier luxury ground transportation provider; RMC, the destination management company originally founded in Aspen and now headquartered in Basalt; and several real estate holdings across the region including Avon.  

Pason Gaddis, CEO of Hoffmann Media Group, emphasized that the family’s investment continues a personal commitment to the Roaring Fork Valley, not an outsider’s play for consolidation. 

“We see tremendous opportunity to elevate Aspen Daily News through cutting-edge digital innovation while honoring its rich heritage,” Gaddis said. “This investment ensures the paper remains a trusted voice and a cornerstone of the valley’s media landscape for generations to come.” 

The partnership comes at a pivotal moment for local journalism nationwide. By joining forces with a family-owned media group—not a hedge fund or corporate chain—Aspen Daily News positions itself to enhance digital innovation, diversify revenue and remain a strong, independent voice in Aspen for decades to come. 

Founded in 1978 as a one-page “missive,” Aspen Daily News has evolved into one of Colorado’s most distinctive and influential local newspapers, known for its watchdog reporting, lively opinions, and commitment to community-centered storytelling. Cook, who became publisher in 2014 and co-owner in 2017, will continue to guide ADN’s organizational mission and represent the paper in the community. 

“What matters most is that our readers see the same Aspen Daily News tomorrow that they saw yesterday,” Cook said. “The only difference is that we’ll now have the support to grow in the ways this community deserves.” 

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About Hoffmann Media Group: 
Hoffmann Media Group—part of Hoffmann Family of Companies—is a rapidly expanding, community-focused media organization committed to strengthening local journalism across the United States. With a portfolio of more than 40 publications spanning over 30 markets nationwide, the company delivers trusted reporting, compelling storytelling, and hyperlocal content that reflects the unique character of each community it serves. 

The portfolio includes wellestablished newspapers and specialty publications across Florida, Colorado, Missouri, Michigan, and California, such as Florida Weekly, Aspen Daily News, The Missourian, The St. Ignace News, Mackinac Island Town Crier, the Napa Valley Register, the St. Helena Star, The Telluride Times, The Norwood Post, Babcock Ranch Telegraph, Ave Maria Sun, and Florida Health Care News, among others. 

Hoffmann Media Group continues to grow through strategic acquisitions that preserve local newsrooms, protect jobs, and ensure that independent, community-rooted journalism remains accessible and sustainable for future generations. 


About Hoffmann Family of Companies: 
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 125 global brands and employs more than 22,000 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] 

GlobalWorks Secures Spot at National Showcase with Dazzling Entry: “Chromatically Crafted: Shades of Sunset Supper”

NAPLES (Oct. 14, 2025) — GlobalWorks, a Naples-based experiential event agency and proud member of the Hoffmann Family of Companies, 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.

Founded and led by Managing Partners Katie Adams and Noelle Christie, GlobalWorks is a women-owned business redefining what it means to create unforgettable experiences.

“At GlobalWorks, we don’t just plan events—we craft the moments people remember forever,” said Adams. “From the spark of connection during a sunset toast to the awe of a perfectly lit venue, we design with intention and impact.”

With a portfolio that spans from the white-sand beaches of Southwest Florida to the volcanic shores of Punaluʻu, Hawaii, GlobalWorks transforms destinations into immersive, story-driven environments. Their full-service approach blends creativity, local insight, and logistical expertise to deliver events that are as seamless as they are spectacular.

CRN, a trusted resource for planners seeking high-impact meetings and immersive experiences, features more than 125 premier hotels and resorts across 50+ destinations. The network is powered by a community of hospitality innovators committed to excellence in event execution and creative collaboration.

“Being recognized on a national stage is a dream come true,” added Adams. “This event was a labor of love, and we’re thrilled to share it with a broader audience.”

GlobalWorks earned its place at next week’s showcase with its standout submission, “Chromatically Crafted: Shades of Sunset Supper,” originally hosted at the JW Marriott Marco Island in April. The concept invited guests to savor a multi-course meal inspired by the Pantone palette of a coastal sunset—warm oranges, soft pinks, dusky blues, and deep purples—each dish paired with curated wines to enhance the sensory journey. Guests experienced an Aura Camera photobooth, color-coordinated food and beverage tastings

Christie said, “The response to Sunset Shades was incredible. We’re excited to bring that same joy and wonder to even more people through this opportunity at the New York Marriott Marquis!”

“GlobalWorks thought of everything for the event, and I’m so glad that they were selected for the New York showcase,” said Tracy Tirell, Marketing Manager for JW Marriott—Marco Island. “Guests were greeted with familiar songs from a variety of genres; with a keen ear they realized each song being played has a color in the title. Think Purple Rain by Prince and Yellow from Coldplay. It was just so thoughtful and truly a top-notch experience.”

For more information about GlobalWorks and their portfolio of destination events, visit www.globalworksevents.com.

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About GlobalWorks

GlobalWorks is a premier full-service event and destination management company based in Naples, Florida. Renowned for crafting unforgettable experiences, GlobalWorks specializes in corporate events, meetings, and special occasions that blend creativity with flawless execution. With deep local knowledge and logistical expertise, the team delivers seamless, high-impact events across top destinations including Florida, Nevada, California, and Arizona. From venue sourcing and event design to on-the-ground coordination and insider access, GlobalWorks transforms vision into reality—elevating every moment.

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.

About Marriott’s Convention & Resort Network

The Convention & Resort Network is a premier collection of 100 world-class, integrated JW Marriott®, Autograph Collection® Hotels, Renaissance® Hotels, Marriott Hotels® Gaylord Hotels®, Westin Hotels & Resorts®, Sheraton Hotels & Resorts® and The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts® dedicated to providing the ultimate meeting experience for attendees. With over 9.3 million square feet of meeting space and over 100,000 guest rooms, the Convention & Resort Network offers choices from New York to Los Angeles, Las Vegas to Cancun, and Montreal to Hawaii.

For More Information: Rachel Berkowitz | [email protected]

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

TORONTO (Oct. 13, 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).

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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.

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