Hoffmann Family of Companies Archives - Hoffmann Family of Companies

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.

For More Information: [email protected]

Pure Florida Joins Marine Vertical, Ensuring Continued Local Legacy on the Water

NAPLES (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, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Pure Florida, a popular maritime tourism business operating in Naples, Fla.

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. With a steadfast commitment to hospitality, adventure, and relaxation, Pure Florida has become a premier provider of water-based attractions for both seasonal visitors and permanent residents of Naples.

Jenny Gezella, President of Hoffmann Marine, commented: “The Julians have built an exceptional business in Southwest Florida, and we’re excited to carry their legacy forward. We look forward to working alongside their incredible team and welcoming Pure Florida into the Hoffmann Family.”

Operating out of Historic Tin City, Pure Florida’s fleet includes M/V Double Sunshine and M/V Naples Explorer, which offer sightseeing, dolphin-watching, and sunset cruises. The company also operates M/V Sea Flight, M/V Sea Flight II, and M/V Sea Flight III, providing deep-sea, back bay, and calm bay fishing trips, along with deck boat and Jet Ski rentals.

“After sixteen rewarding years of building the Pure Florida family, with the support of an incredible crew and vibrant Tin City community, the time has come to hand over the helm,” said [Harry] Julian. “I am proud of what the team has accomplished together and am grateful for the relationships we’ve built along the way. With strong leadership in place and new ownership stepping in, I’m confident Pure Florida will continue to grow, offering fresh experiences while delivering the high level of service our valuable customers expect and enjoy.”

This acquisition strengthens HF Companies’ significant presence in the region’s tourism and hospitality sector. Pure Florida joins a robust portfolio of Naples-headquartered businesses, including:

5 Star Valet
American Farms
Augusta Clothing Company
Dolphin Transportation
Everglades Excursions
Florida Everblades
Global Jetcare
GlobalWorks Events & Destination Management
Hertz Arena
Kaleidoscope Floral
Linstol
Marco Island Princess
Miss Naples
MNH Sustainable Cabin Services
Naples eBike Tours
Naples Princess
Naples Transportation & Tours (NT&T)
Naples Trolley Tours
Old Collier Golf Club
Old Corkscrew Golf Club
Port O’ Call Marina
Port O’ Call Rentals
Regency Watersports
Rowland Coffee Roasters
Segway of Naples Tours
Stan’s Coffee
Sunmaster of Naples
The Java Butler
Titan Screen
Topiary Creations

The announcement follows the Hoffmanns’ recent reentry into the 5th Avenue South market through the expansion of Augusta Clothing Company, a boutique originally founded by Jerri Hoffmann, matriarch of the family business.

For a complete overview of Hoffmann Family of Companies’ Marine and Hospitality & Entertainment Verticals, visit www.hfcompanies.com/companies. For the latest news and updates, visit www.hfcompanies.com/news.

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For More Information: Rachel Berkowitz | [email protected]

Strategic acquisition expands global transportation network and strengthens luxury service footprint

TAMPA BAY (Oct. 1, 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 Olympus Limo (“Olympus”), a premier luxury transportation provider serving the Tampa Bay area and over 350 cities worldwide.

Founded in 1996 with just two stretch limousines to support a thriving wedding business at Spartan Manor, Olympus Limo has grown into the largest and most trusted ground transportation company on Florida’s West Coast. Today, Olympus offers a full suite of chauffeured services—from black car sedans and SUVs to limousines, vans, and full-size motor coaches—serving individual travelers, corporate clients, and large-scale events.

“Olympus Limo has earned a stellar reputation for delivering safe, reliable, and high-touch transportation services across the U.S. and in hundreds of international markets,” said Geoff Hoffmann, CEO of HF Companies’ private equity arm. “Their dedication to excellence and customer care mirrors our own values, making them a natural fit for our portfolio. We’re proud to welcome Olympus to Hoffmann Transportation and look forward to accelerating their growth while preserving the exceptional service their clients have come to expect.”

Following the acquisition of four leading transportation companies in 2024, Hoffmann Family of Companies’ Aviation & Transportation vertical has experienced rapid expansion. Today, the division offers a broad spectrum of services—including luxury ground transportation, medical transport, valet operations, and more—across more than 25 global locations. With a growing international footprint and a reputation for premium service, the vertical continues to deliver exceptional experiences to a diverse and discerning customer base.

“Joining Hoffmann Family of Companies marks an exciting new chapter for Olympus,” said Ted Koutsos, CEO of Olympus Limo. “We’ve always believed in delivering best-in-class service, and with HF Companies’ support, we’ll be able to elevate our client experience and expand our reach like never before.”

The deal team was led by Tim Rose, President of Hoffmann Transportation Group, and advised by Frank Campoamor (Legal). Olympus was advised by John Athanaselos and Mike Little (Legal).

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For More Information: [email protected]

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

LOUISVILLE (Sept. 22, 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 Derby Fabricating Solutions, LLC (“Derby”), a leading manufacturer serving the automotive and appliance industries.

Founded in 1977, Derby operates four production facilities across the Midwest: Louisville and Cadiz, Kentucky; Sidney, Ohio; and Rockford, Michigan. The company specializes in the conversion and fabrication of die-cut nonmetallic materials, with a strong focus on noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) control solutions for automotive OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers.

Derby is IATF 16949 registered, reflecting its commitment to quality and continuous improvement. The company was among the first in its industry to achieve TS 16949 certification and continues to deliver award-winning audit scores and PPM results.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Derby Fabricating Solutions to Hoffmann Family of Companies,” said Geoff Hoffmann, CEO of HF Companies’ private equity arm. “Derby’s reputation for precision, innovation, and customer-centric manufacturing aligns perfectly with our values. This acquisition strengthens our manufacturing vertical and opens new opportunities for growth and operational synergy across our portfolio.”

“Joining Hoffmann Family of Companies marks an exciting new chapter for Derby,” said Jason Kellams, President and CEO of Derby Fabricating Solutions. “From the beginning, it was clear that our cultures were aligned—both organizations value integrity, long-term relationships, and operational excellence. We’re eager to leverage Hoffmann’s resources and strategic vision to accelerate our growth and continue delivering exceptional value to our customers.”

Derby’s mission is to be the most trusted and valued supplier to its customers—delivering excellence through uncompromising quality, innovative service, and total cost management. With nearly five decades of expertise and a forward-thinking approach to manufacturing and customer care, Derby is poised to accelerate its impact across industries. The partnership with Hoffmann Family of Companies marks a pivotal moment in Derby’s growth journey, unlocking new opportunities for scale, innovation, and long-term value creation.

The deal team was led by Clayton Jones, EVP of Business Development and advised by Husch Blackwell (Legal) and Forvis Mazars (Diligence). Derby was advised by Donnelly Penman (M&A) and Jackson Walker LLP (Legal). For more information, visit www.derbyfab.com or www.hfcompanies.com.

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For More Information: Rachel Berkowitz | [email protected]

Spotlighting RMC’s journey, impact, and growth within the Hoffmann portfolio.

Every portfolio company has a story worth telling—one built on innovation, resilience, and lasting impact. In our new series, From Vision to Value, we spotlight the businesses within the Hoffmann portfolio, bringing their journeys, challenges, and successes to life in a way that captures their unique contributions.

To launch the series, we sat down with Shawn Thomson, Founder and CEO of RMC – Resorts I Mountains I Cities, the largest privately owned destination management and special events company in the United States. With over 35 destinations nationwide and revenues exceeding $75 million, RMC is a powerhouse in luxury hospitality—and Shawn is the visionary behind it all.

GEOFF:
Shawn, you’ve built something truly remarkable with RMC. I’m proud to share that the company made the Inc. 5000 list of Fastest Growing Companies in America—for the second year in a row. And on top of that, you were recently named one of Colorado Biz’s 2025 Top Women of Colorado. Congratulations!

SHAWN:
Thank you, Geoff. I wasn’t going to be the one to bring it up, but I really appreciate it. These honors mean a lot—but they’re a reflection of our entire team. We say it all the time: one team, one dream.

GEOFF:
Let’s rewind—how did you first get into destination management?

SHAWN:
It started in 1989. I had just moved to Aspen after running a company in Houston that managed global crew rotations. Commuting between the two cities was tough—especially with a daughter in fourth grade. Eventually, I sold that business and asked myself, “What’s next?”

I’d worked with companies like RMC before—back then, they were called ground suppliers. Someone suggested I buy a small Aspen-based company, and I thought, “I’ve hired these teams before. I know this space. I can do this.” So in 1990, I bought RMC. It was just me and one office in Aspen.

As we grew beyond the Rockies, we rebranded to RMC—Resorts | Mountains | Cities. Today, we operate in over 35 destinations across the U.S.

GEOFF:
What was the first market you expanded into beyond Aspen?

SHAWN:
Vail was our first move—it’s close to Aspen and made strategic sense. Our first hotel partner was the Ritz-Carlton Aspen, where we went in-house. That embedded model—being physically present within hotel properties—is a key differentiator for RMC. It allows us to be deeply integrated and responsive.

We also maintain external offices for operational needs. Every destination we serve has a brick-and-mortar presence. From Vail, we expanded to Colorado Springs and the Broadmoor, then Denver, Jackson Hole, and Park City. Our growth was often driven by strong relationships with hotel GMs—many of whom relocated and invited us to follow. If the opportunity aligned, we opened an office.

GEOFF:
Any standout examples from that journey?

SHAWN:
Park City is a great one. Both the Montage and St. Regis opened there the same year. Our GM from Aspen moved to Deer Valley and encouraged us to establish a presence. We opened our office a year and a half before Montage even launched. That kind of trust and foresight has been a cornerstone of our growth.

GEOFF:
Did that pattern continue as you moved into other regions?

SHAWN:
Absolutely—though sometimes I went kicking and screaming! Bluffton and the Savannah area weren’t on my radar, but now that region—including Charleston, Savannah, and Kiawah—is one of our most successful.

It’s amazing how things come full circle. The General Manager who brought us into St. Regis has since moved on, but his daughter now works for us. We’ve had several second-generation team members join RMC, including a young woman in Aspen whose mother worked for me years ago. That kind of continuity and loyalty means everything.

GEOFF:
It sounds like relationships are central to your success. What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in that area?

SHAWN:
Always remember who your clients are—and it’s not just the end user. At RMC, we treat our hotel partners as our most important clients. We work alongside them to serve their guests, who ultimately become our clients too. The same goes for our vendors. We place enormous trust in them and treat them like clients because they’re essential to the experience we deliver.

GEOFF:
That’s a powerful model. How do you ensure vendor quality and compliance?

SHAWN:
We’re extremely selective. We have a dedicated team that vets vendors—everything from insurance and employee standards to presentation and uniforms. Due diligence is non-negotiable. Every vendor must align with our standards and the expectations of our luxury clientele.

GEOFF:
Within the Hoffmann Family of Companies, we’re always thinking about how to build a circular economy across the portfolio. When it comes to your vendor network, do you ever help them expand into new markets?

SHAWN:
Absolutely. It varies by region, but we’ve helped many vendors grow with us. A great example is from Park City—when we expanded to Big Sky, Montana, we brought a trusted transportation partner from the St. Regis. That move led to a multi-million-dollar contract for them. We’ve repeated that model in several destinations, always supporting our partners as we grow.

GEOFF:
Do you think that level of partnership and scrutiny sets RMC apart from other destination management companies?

SHAWN:
I believe it does. Most DMCs are likely diligent about insurance and liability—at least I hope so. But what sets us apart is our commitment to the luxury experience. We hold our partners to high standards in presentation, professionalism, and guest experience. That’s where we truly differentiate.

GEOFF:
As you continue expanding—like in Savannah, which turned out to be a surprise success—are there any markets you’re targeting now?

SHAWN:
We’re actively growing in Southern California. We already have offices in Santa Barbara, Healdsburg, Napa/Sonoma, and Lake Tahoe. Now, we’re expanding into Laguna and Newport Beach. We’re also planning to enter a Florida market near Savannah, which feels like a natural extension of our Southeast success.

GEOFF:
It’s clear that people and culture are central to your work. What’s your favorite part of what you do?

SHAWN:
Watching our team grow. We’ve had interns become general managers over 13 years. Our leadership is always looking ahead, nurturing talent and identifying opportunities.
I especially love hosting familiarization trips—“fams”—with hotel partners. We showcase destinations, venues, restaurants, and experiences in incredible detail. Seeing our clients’ reactions makes it all worthwhile.

SHAWN (continued):
Of course, with that passion come challenges. People are our greatest asset, so we invest heavily in training and development. We have a dedicated training division for new hires, a corporate trainer for leadership, and an annual RMC University for several days of education and connection.

We also support certifications like CMP and ADME, cover the costs, and send employees to relevant conferences. Our incentive trips are extraordinary—last year was Portugal, this year Fiji, and we’ve even gone to South Africa.

GEOFF:
That’s impressive. What’s the thinking behind those incentive trips?

SHAWN:
We believe that experiencing an incentive trip firsthand helps our team better understand what our clients expect. Everyone at RMC is eligible—operations, sales, admin, marketing, finance. It’s not just for sales anymore. We also recognize general managers, regional leaders, and our employee of the year through these programs.

GEOFF:
That’s a very inclusive approach!

SHAWN:
It has to be. Our finance team supports operations, marketing supports sales—it’s all interconnected. We’ve even asked employees if they’d prefer a cash bonus instead of the trip, and every time, they choose the trip. It builds culture, loyalty, and empathy. These experiences help our team connect with the kind of programs we deliver for clients.

GEOFF:
As you know, culture is extremely important to me and the business—how would you describe the culture at RMC, especially with so many locations and people?

SHAWN:
The biggest compliment we get is that RMC’s culture feels different. We’re all about our people. This year’s RMC University theme is “RMCU”—with a focus on you. We even built programming around the letters R, M, and C. The “C,” as you might guess, was about COVID and how we’ve grown through it.

Our culture is caring and family-based. That’s hard to maintain at scale, but we’re committed to it. My daughter is our Chief of Staff and has been with RMC for over 16 years. We have other mother-daughter teams, siblings, and long-standing relationships that feel like family.

GEOFF:
That’s inspiring, especially with nearly 1,000 employees.

SHAWN:
It’s a lot, but we work hard to make sure that family feeling reaches everyone. A new executive recently told me he’d never seen anything like our culture. In his previous role, it was just “do your job and clock out.” Here, we’re committed from day one.

From onboarding and training to executive engagement and career development, we’re always helping our people grow—and making sure they’re having fun. We operate in a luxury model, but we also believe in joy and connection.

GEOFF:
What has being part of the Hoffmann Family of Companies enabled you and RMC to do?

SHAWN:
The biggest thing is knowing they’re there. Kevin Morrison, CFO of Hoffmann Family of Companies, is one of the most amazing people I’ve worked with—he listens, supports, and has been instrumental in helping us expand. Tamir Rankow has been with me from the start, and really, the entire Hoffmann team is incredibly helpful. They catch things, offer insights, and provide financial support when needed. It’s a true partnership.

GEOFF:
What’s something you wish more people knew about your business?

SHAWN:
I wish people understood how much work goes into curating a destination. We don’t just Google things or call random vendors. We build relationships and rely on deep local expertise to ensure our clients get the best—whether it’s a bike ride, a restaurant, a venue, or entertainment.

At 3:00 AM, when something goes wrong, who are you going to call? That’s where a destination management company like ours makes all the difference. We live and breathe these destinations, and our team is trained to deliver that level of support.

GEOFF:
Shawn, I see you as a bright beacon of light in the portfolio. We’re so happy and lucky to have RMC as part of the Hoffmann Family of Companies.

LEARN MORE ABOUT RMC | READ SHAWN’S PROFILE IN COLORADOBIZ | WATCH RMC IN ACTION

Legacy Telluride Publication Becomes Part of Rapidly Growing Media Network

FORT MYERS/TELLURIDE (Sept. 15, 2025) – Hoffmann Family of Companies and Hoffmann Media Group are pleased to announce the completed acquisition of the Telluride Daily Planet, its sister publication The Norwood Post, and lifestyle titles Telluride Style and Shelter Magazine. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

Importantly, the closing coincides with the announcement of Maureen Pelisson as the new Publisher of the Telluride Daily Planet. Pelisson is a seasoned publishing executive whose career spans both national media and community journalism. She began her journey in New York with NBC News and later worked in San Francisco with CNET. For nearly two decades, she has led advertising, editorial, special publications, and digital marketing efforts at the Daily Planet. Under her leadership, the paper has earned multiple accolades from the Colorado Press Association and the Colorado Society of Professional Journalists, including five Advertising Excellence Awards.

Beyond her publishing work, Pelisson is a committed nonprofit advocate in the Telluride community, having dedicated over 15 years to serving on the Board of Directors for Second Chance Humane Society and mentoring with One-to-One Mentoring.

“It’s an honor to lead the Telluride Daily Planet into its next chapter,” said Pelisson. “I’m excited to build on its legacy of trusted local journalism while embracing new opportunities to serve and connect our vibrant community.”

Originally founded in 1898 as the Telluride Times, the Telluride Daily Planet has long been the trusted source of local news for residents and visitors of Telluride, Colorado, and the surrounding San Miguel County. Renowned for its in-depth community reporting, coverage of local government, and dedication to preserving the unique voice and culture of the mountain town, the publication holds a special place in the region’s media landscape.

In October, the Telluride Daily Planet will return to its historic name, Telluride Times, and will continue to operate under its existing local leadership. Hoffmann Media Group plans to invest in enhanced digital capabilities and expanded local coverage, ensuring the publication remains a trusted source of news for generations to come.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Maureen to our team and help further the legacy of the Telluride Daily Planet,” said J. Pason Gaddis, CEO of Hoffmann Media Group. “Telluride is a vibrant, world-class community, and we believe strong local journalism is essential to keeping it informed, connected, and resilient. We’re incredibly proud of the talented journalists who bring Telluride’s stories to life—and confident they’ll thrive under Maureen’s thoughtful leadership.”

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About Hoffmann Media Group: Hoffmann Media Group—part of Hoffmann Family of Companies—is a dynamic and innovative media company committed to delivering high-quality journalism and content. With a strong focus on community engagement, the group operates a diverse portfolio of publications and media platforms, connecting audiences through trusted reporting and meaningful storytelling. Hoffmann Media Group publishes variety of publications, including The Napa Valley Register, St. Helena Star, Florida Weekly, Babcock Ranch Telegraph, Ave Maria Sun, Town Chronicle, St. Ignace News, Mackinac Island Town Crier, Florida Health Care News, and iFoundMyDoctor.com. These publications span over 30 markets and focus on delivering high-quality local news and content.

For More Information: [email protected]

Telluride Daily Planet to Join Family-Owned Media Portfolio; Closing Anticipated September 2025

FORT MYERS (Aug. 18, 2025) – Hoffmann Family of Companies and Hoffmann Media Group are pleased to announce a pending agreement to acquire the Telluride Daily Planet, its sister publication The Norwood Post, and lifestyle titles Telluride Style and Shelter Magazine. The transaction is expected to close on September 12, 2025. Terms of the agreement have not been disclosed.

“We are honored to carry forward the legacy of the Telluride Daily Planet and support the talented team of journalists who bring Telluride’s stories to life,” said J. Pason Gaddis, CEO of Hoffmann Media Group. “Telluride is a vibrant, world-class community, and we believe strong local journalism is essential to keeping it informed, connected, and resilient.”

“This acquisition reflects our continued commitment to the newspaper industry and our belief in the vital role of independent journalism in communities across the country,” added David Hoffmann, Chairman of Hoffmann Family of Companies.

Following the closing, the Telluride Daily Planet will return to its historic name, Telluride Times, and will continue to operate under its existing local leadership. Hoffmann Media Group plans to invest in enhanced digital capabilities and expanded local coverage, ensuring the publication remains a trusted source of news for generations to come.

This announcement follows Hoffmann Media Group’s June acquisition of Missourian Publishing Co., owner of The Missourian Media Group, a respected family-owned media organization based in Washington, Missouri.

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For More Information: [email protected]

Strategic Partnership Aims to Expand Elmer’s Year-Round Offerings, Accelerate Growth

NEW ORLEANS (Aug. 5, 2025) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a U.S.-based family equity firm with a long-term investment philosophy, has acquired Elmer Chocolate (“Elmer”), one of the nation’s leading seasonal chocolatiers and the largest manufacturer of small heart-shaped chocolate boxes in the United States.

“We’re honored to partner with the Nelson family and build on Elmer Chocolate’s remarkable legacy,” said Geoff Hoffmann, Co-CEO of HF Companies. “Rob and Michael [Nelson] are exceptional leaders, and their commitment to quality and tradition aligns perfectly with our values. Elmer is a storied brand with tremendous potential, and we’re excited to help shape its next chapter of growth and innovation.”

Terms of the deal were not disclosed, but Elmer will continue under the leadership of third-generation family members Rob and Michael Nelson, who will retain partial ownership and remain actively involved in the company’s future and leadership.

“This partnership marks a pivotal milestone for Elmer Chocolate as we embark on an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation,” said Rob Nelson, President & CEO. “By expanding operations and broadening our portfolio beyond seasonal confections, we’re positioning the company for year-round customer engagement—while remaining true to the heritage and craftsmanship that have defined our brand for 170 years. Most importantly, our current product line will remain unchanged, continuing to deliver the quality and flavor our consumers know and love.”

“At Elmer, our culture has always been rooted in people—our employees, our customers, and our community,” said Michael Nelson, President & Chief Operating Officer. “That shared focus was a key driver in choosing a partner with a long-term vision and genuine respect for family-owned businesses. We’re confident this collaboration will empower our team and help us advance our mission in meaningful ways. To our loyal customers: your Elmer teams aren’t going anywhere—we’ll continue to work closely with you on the exciting opportunities ahead.”

Elmer Chocolate’s story began in 1855 with New Orleans pastry chef Christopher Henry Miller. The business later evolved into Elmer Candy Corporation when Miller’s son-in-law, Augustus Elmer, and his descendants joined the enterprise. In the 1960s, Roy Nelson acquired the company’s confectionery arm, steering it toward seasonal chocolates. By 1970, he and his son Allan had consolidated manufacturing in Ponchatoula, Louisiana—laying the groundwork for Elmer’s rise as a national confectionery leader.

In 2016, Elmer further solidified its market presence by expanding its production facility by 70,000 square feet, bringing the total footprint to more than 400,000 square feet. The expansion positioned Elmer Chocolate as the most technologically advanced assorted chocolate manufacturer and packer in the industry.

With a rich legacy and iconic product lineup, Elmer has become a staple in American celebrations. Elmer has earned national recognition for their Celebrate with Chocolate Valentine’s Day assorted chocolate hearts with more than 40 million sold annually across North America. Gold Brick Eggs and Heavenly Hash Eggs are the iconic Easter candy brands in the New Orleans market that have been present at Easter celebrations for over a century.

The deal team was led by Clayton Jones, EVP of Business Development and advised by Berger Cohen & Brandt (Legal) and FORVIS (Diligence). Elmer was advised by NextGen Capital Markets (M&A).

To learn more about Elmer Chocolate’s timeless treats and future innovations, visit www.elmerchocolate.com. For updates from Hoffmann Family of Companies, visit www.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 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: Rachel Berkowitz | [email protected]

CHICAGO/NAPLES/ST. LOUIS (April 1, 2025) – The Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies), a family-owned private equity firm with deep roots in Chicago’s North Shore, Southwest Florida, and Greater St. Louis, is proud to announce that its Founder and Chairman, David Hoffmann, has been honored on Forbes’ prestigious ‘World Billionaires’ list for the fourth consecutive year. In 2024, Hoffmann was ranked #1945; this year, he is ranked #1750 with a net worth of $2B.

Hoffmann’s entrepreneurial journey began in 1989 with the founding of Chicago-headquartered DHR Global, a leading global executive search and leadership advisory firm. His real estate revitalization efforts, spearheaded through Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), encompass properties in Naples, Fla; Winnetka, Ill.; Augusta, Mo.; Mackinac Island, Mich.; and Avon, Colo.—collectively valued at over $1 billion.

Beyond its real estate investments, HF Companies has continued its momentum since the publication of the 2024 Forbes list, acquiring over 10 new companies across its sectors of focus:

February 2025: Bay Area Herbs & Specialties | San Francisco, Calif. | Agriculture
November 2024: Dolphin Transportation Specialists | Naples, Fla. | Aviation & Transportation
October 2024: Premier Transporation | Dallas, Texas | Aviation & Transportation
September 2024: Napa Valley Publishing Company | Napa Valley, Calif. | Marketing & Media
August 2024: Viking Plastics | Corry, Penn. | Manufacturing
July 2024: CTS Aspen | Aspen, Colo. | Aviation & Transportation
July 2024: Envision Engineering | Lowell, Mich. | Manufacturing
June 2024: Arnold Transit Company | Mackinac Island, Mich. | Marine
June 2024: Oberweis Dairy | Winnetka, Ill. | Manufacturing
May 2024: Sip n’ Sail Cruises | Mackinac Island, Mich. | Marine
April 2024: Pure Luxury Transportation | Sonoma County, Calif. | Aviation & Transportation

Throughout 2024, Hoffmann expanded its ownership stake in Lee Enterprises, Inc., becoming its second-largest shareholder. HF Companies plans to further grow this investment as market conditions allow. Lee is the fourth-largest newspaper publisher in the U.S., operating in 26 states and managing 77 newspapers nationwide, including the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.

The Hoffmann Family’s philanthropic endeavors span a wide array of causes, including healthcare, youth development, and the arts. They provide financial support and actively serve on the boards of renowned nonprofits such as the Boys & Girls Club of Collier County, Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF), Brightpoint Chicago (formerly Children’s Home & Aid), the Everglades Foundation, the Field Museum (Chicago), the Horatio Alger Association, Joffrey Ballet (Chicago), the Naples Children & Education Foundation, Naples Players Community Theatre, the Naples Zoo, Type 1 Timer (T1T) Hockey, the University of Chicago Kovler Diabetes Center, and the Washington County 4-H Club (Missouri).

To see Hoffmann’s Forbes profile, visit forbes.com/profile/david-hoffmann. To see the complete ranking, visit forbes.com/billionaires. For additional updates on Hoffmann Family of Companies, visit www.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 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 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]

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

Pure Florida Joins Marine Vertical, Ensuring Continued Local Legacy on the Water

Strategic acquisition expands global transportation network and strengthens luxury service footprint

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

Spotlighting RMC’s journey, impact, and growth within the Hoffmann portfolio.

Legacy Telluride Publication Becomes Part of Rapidly Growing Media Network

Telluride Daily Planet to Join Family-Owned Media Portfolio; Closing Anticipated September 2025

Strategic Partnership Aims to Expand Elmer’s Year-Round Offerings, Accelerate Growth

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