Nikou, who founded Atar Capital in 2016, was named a 2025 nominee in two categories: Dealmaker of the Year and Private Equity Professional of the Year (Family Office/Independent Sponsor). The awards celebrate the transactions and professionals shaping Southern California’s dealmaking landscape.
“As a Los Angeles-based firm, Atar Capital is proud to contribute to the city’s dynamic business ecosystem — which makes these nominations for the Los Angeles Business Journal’s M&A Awards all the more meaningful,” said Nikou. “Our global portfolio now spans more than a dozen companies, yet our roots remain firmly planted in this innovative city. We’re in the business of partnering with companies that make a difference, and our ethos of realizing both financial value as well as societal impact has served us well. As we look ahead, we remain focused on our core mission: to invigorate, empower, and motivate our affiliate companies to achieve their full potential while creating positive change in the world.
“Thank you to the Los Angeles Business Journal for this recognition, and congratulations to all the other nominees who are driving innovation and growth in our industry.”
Nikou’s two M&A Award nominations follow Atar Capital’s successful acquisition of Conver Pack Inc, enabling affiliate company WinCup to expand its manufacturing capabilities and product lines. Atar Capital has also worked alongside mental health services provider Clarvida and automotive-manufacturing firm Solero Technologies as they reimagine innovation in their respective fields for the current and future landscape. For more information about the M&A Awards, visit the Los Angeles Business Journal’s website here.
About Atar Capital
Atar Capital is a global private investment firm that acquires a wide range of lower middle market businesses exhibiting opportunities for growth, revitalization and significant value creation. Atar Capital’s principals have collectively completed 90 private equity transactions across 18 countries worldwide.
Atar Capital’s combination of operational expertise, industry knowledge and investment experience provide a unique edge in creating value and working as a true partner with its affiliated companies. The firm assists in activities ranging from growing the business to improving operations and financial performance, leveraging all available resources and talent within Atar’s leadership team, as well as its bench of seasoned senior advisors with deep sector and functional expertise. For more information, please visit https://atarcapital.com/.
Set to take place between September 6 and 13 across California, the bike tour will raise funds to support the 60 million Americans living with arthritis. Over the 525-mile route that begins in San Francisco and travels the California coastline to Los Angeles, participants will be able to use phade®’s line of great-performing PHA-based foodservice products with the added peace of mind that every paper cup, straw, and piece of cutlery is entirely home-compostable within a matter of months.
“I’m proud to work alongside WinCup as they simultaneously help solve the plastic pollution crisis while supporting the Arthritis Foundation as they stage a great event for a worthy cause in Atar Capital’s home state of California,” said Cyrus Nikou, founder and managing partner of Atar Capital. “Our Investing with Impact philosophy puts a premium on partnering with organizations like WinCup that make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s supporting cyclists on their journey down the California coast or helping protect our planet with sustainable products that work as well as traditional plastic, these are the kinds of meaningful partnerships that create lasting value for everyone involved.”
Now in its 25th year, the California Coast Classic will bring together hundreds of riders, volunteers, and supporters as they raise awareness and funds for arthritis research and support. WinCup’s phade® line of products will be the exclusive provider of foodservice products to the more than 30 teams planning to conquer the path.
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate the California Coast Classic and the work of Arthritis Foundation,” said Michael Adams, Vice President, Innovation, Sustainability and Marketing at WinCup. “This event embodies the same spirit of innovation and perseverance that drives us at WinCup. Just as the cyclists push through challenges on their journey, Arthritis Foundation works tirelessly to provide support for those living with arthritis and to one day find a cure. We are honored to contribute to this vital cause by helping the event achieve its zero-waste goals with sustainable phade® products.”
Read the full press release here. Additional riders can learn more about virtual involvement here, and pick up their own set of phade® products at Walmarts nationwide.
About Atar Capital
Atar Capital is a global private investment firm that acquires a wide range of lower middle market businesses exhibiting opportunities for growth, revitalization and significant value creation. Atar Capital’s principals have collectively completed 90 private equity transactions across 18 countries worldwide.
Atar Capital’s combination of operational expertise, industry knowledge and investment experience provide a unique edge in creating value and working as a true partner with its affiliated companies. The firm assists in activities ranging from growing the business to improving operations and financial performance, leveraging all available resources and talent within Atar’s leadership team, as well as its bench of seasoned senior advisors with deep sector and functional expertise. For more information, please visit https://atarcapital.com/.
About WinCup, Inc.
WinCup, Inc. is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and is a leading manufacturer of traditional and Eco-Friendly disposable cups, bowls, containers, lids, and straws. The company’s eight manufacturing locations across the U.S. are committed to high-quality products and superior customer service. To learn more, please visit www.wincup.com.
Global private investment firm’s new associate to support Atar Capital and affiliate companies’ business development initiatives.
LOS ANGELES, CA – Atar Capital, a global private investment firm, is pleased to announce the addition of Logan Turner to its team as an Associate. In this role, Logan will support the firm’s deal origination, evaluation, and qualification efforts for new opportunities, while also contributing to business development initiatives across Atar Capital’s affiliate companies.
Logan joins Atar full-time after participation in the firm’s internship program, where he played a key role supporting the Business Development team through investment screenings, market research, and strategic growth planning. Logan’s hands-on experience with financial analysis and due diligence processes have laid the groundwork for his current role.
“We are thrilled to welcome Logan to the Atar Capital team,” said Cyrus Nikou, Founder and Managing Partner at Atar Capital. “He showcased immense dedication and hard work throughout the duration of his internship, and we’re confident that he will contribute meaningfully to the continued growth and success of our firm, and our network of affiliate companies.”
Logan attended the University of California, Los Angeles, earning a B.A. in Economics.
About Atar Capital
Atar Capital is a global private investment firm that benefits from 80 years of combined buy-out, investing and portfolio company management experience. The firm’s principals have collectively completed over 90 private equity transactions across eighteen countries worldwide. Atar Capital specializes in complex carve-outs, corporate divestitures and turnarounds of high-potential businesses and is a collaborative partner to sustainable and purpose-driven companies that can make a valuable and positive impact on the world. Headquartered in Los Angeles, Atar Capital’s best-in-class business development, M&A and operations capabilities enable its affiliate companies to unlock their full potential. For more information, visit www.atarcapital.com.
By building on its groundbreaking PHA innovation with premium paper products, WinCup furthers the eco-conscious transformation of the food packaging industry.
LOS ANGELES — Atar Capital, a Los Angeles-based global private investment firm, today announced its affiliate WinCup’s successful acquisition of Conver Pack Inc, a manufacturer of premium paper cup products and accessories based in Medley, Florida.
The strategic acquisition strengthens WinCup’s position as a leader in sustainable foodservice packaging by adding Conver Pack’s SFI-certified paper cups to its innovative product lineup. This addition complements WinCup’s groundbreaking phade® brand of marine-biodegradable and home-compostable straws, cups, and cutlery.
“WinCup’s acquisition of Conver Pack represents another milestone in our mission to be the leaders in sustainable packaging,” said Cyrus Nikou, Founder and Managing Partner of Atar Capital. “By combining these complementary product lines, we’re creating a comprehensive eco-friendly portfolio that accelerates the transition into sustainable solutions while delivering the performance and customer experience that foodservice operators demand.”
“This strategic acquisition significantly expands WinCup’s sustainable packaging capabilities and product portfolio by combining our innovative PHA-based phade® technology with Conver Pack’s premium paper solutions,” said Brad Laporte, CEO of WinCup. “By offering customary substrates, PHA-based, and paper-based platforms, we can now provide foodservice operators a complete suite of traditional foodservice products plus truly sustainable alternatives that address virtually every packaging need.”
Since acquiring WinCup in 2020, Atar Capital has strategically supported the company’s expansion of its revolutionary phade® product line, which has replaced over 3 billion plastic straws with sustainable alternatives. The addition of Conver Pack strengthens WinCup’s ability to serve the growing market demand for environmentally responsible foodservice packaging.
About Atar Capital
Atar Capital is a global private investment firm that acquires a wide range of lower middle market businesses exhibiting opportunities for growth, revitalization and significant value creation. Atar Capital’s principals have collectively completed 90 private equity transactions across 18 countries worldwide.
Atar Capital’s combination of operational expertise, industry knowledge and investment experience provide a unique edge in creating value and working as a true partner with its affiliate companies. The firm assists in activities ranging from growing the business to improving operations and financial performance, leveraging all available resources and talent within Atar’s leadership team, as well as its bench of seasoned senior advisors with deep sector and functional expertise. For more information, please visit www.atarcapital.com.
About WinCup, Inc.
WinCup, Inc., headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia is a leading manufacturer of traditional and eco-friendly disposable cups, bowls, containers, lids, and straws. The company’s eight manufacturing locations across the U.S. are committed to high-quality products and superior customer service. To learn more, please visit www.wincup.com.
LABJ celebrates the most influential leaders and impactful executives in the Los Angeles business community with its annual list, published June 2. The recognition reflects Nikou’s notable contributions within private equity and his commitment to driving meaningful progress through sustainable investments at Atar Capital.
“I’m deeply honored to be recognized by LA500 for my leadership, but even more for the meaningful progress that Atar Capital is spearheading in the communities it serves,” said Nikou. “This honor reflects the unwavering dedication of our team as we partner with mission-driven businesses to address significant sustainability challenges affecting our society and create lasting impact. I’m proud of what my team has accomplished and excited for what’s ahead.”
Under Nikou’s leadership, Atar Capital has demonstrated that lower-middle market investment firms can deliver strong returns while making the world better. He founded the firm in 2016, and works directly with leadership at Atar Capital’s affiliate companies to drive sustainable growth, efficiency, and innovation across industries.
Find the complete list of 2025’s LA500 at Los Angeles Business Journalhere.
About Atar Capital
Atar Capital is a global private investment firm that acquires a wide range of lower middle market businesses exhibiting opportunities for growth, revitalization and significant value creation. Atar Capital’s principals have collectively completed 90 private equity transactions across 18 countries worldwide.
Atar Capital’s combination of operational expertise, industry knowledge and investment experience provide a unique edge in creating value and working as a true partner with its portfolio companies. The firm assists in activities ranging from growing the business to improving operations and financial performance, leveraging all available resources and talent within Atar’s leadership team, as well as its bench of seasoned senior advisors with deep sector and functional expertise. For more information, please visit https://atarcapital.com/.
Atar Capital is proud to highlight the expansion of phade® paper cups, lids, and Flex straws in more than 4,500 Walmart stores across the US and online.
Developed by Atar Capital affiliate companyWinCup, phade® products are made with a revolutionary marine biodegradable polymer that is home and industrially compostable. Now, millions of shoppers at America’s largest retailer can choose their drinkware with confidence, knowing it will fully break down in months, not decades.
“This partnership marks a transformational moment not just for Atar Capital, WinCup, and phade®, but for the entire sustainable packaging industry,” said Atar Capital founder Cyrus Nikou. “We’re excited for even more consumers to replace traditional plastics with innovative alternatives that protect our planet for future generations. This milestone validates our investment thesis that the future belongs to companies solving real-world problems with innovative solutions.”
Since acquiring WinCup in 2020, Atar Capital has provided operational guidance and strategic oversight to a team of world-class leaders. Together, Atar Capital and WinCup expanded the reach of WinCup’s revolutionary phade® technology. Since then, WinCup has achieved remarkable milestones, from winning the 2020 Innovation in Bioplastics Award to partnerships with major sports venues like Mercedes-Benz Stadium and Yankee Stadium.
Read the full press release here. phade® products are available for purchase at Walmart.com here.
About Atar Capital
Atar Capital is a global private investment firm that acquires a wide range of lower middle market businesses exhibiting opportunities for growth, revitalization and significant value creation. Atar Capital’s principals have collectively completed 90 private equity transactions across 18 countries worldwide.
Atar Capital’s combination of operational expertise, industry knowledge and investment experience provide a unique edge in creating value and working as a true partner with its affiliated companies. The firm assists in activities ranging from growing the business to improving operations and financial performance, leveraging all available resources and talent within Atar’s leadership team, as well as its bench of seasoned senior advisors with deep sector and functional expertise. For more information, please visit https://atarcapital.com/.
About WinCup, Inc.
WinCup, Inc. is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and is a leading manufacturer of traditional and Eco-Friendly disposable cups, bowls, containers, lids, and straws. The company’s eight manufacturing locations across the U.S. are committed to high-quality products and superior customer service. To learn more, please visit www.wincup.com.
Atar Capital is pleased to highlight the recent feature of founder and managing partner Cyrus Nikou in the Los Angeles Business Journal. The interview by staff reporter Kennedy Zak highlights the principles with which Mr. Nikou founded Atar Capital, and his passion for and focus on impact investing and supporting sustainable companies.
The interview was published on May 12, 2025, and covers Atar Capital’s investment criteria, as well as Mr. Nikou’s belief that long-term sustainable growth and social good can co-exist through innovations that meet today’s customers where they’re at while staying mindful of the needs of the future generation.
“I am a firm believer that companies can innovate in a way that both benefits today’s consumers and builds a better world for future generations,” Mr. Nikou said. “At Atar Capital, we strive to be a source of positive energy. Our ESG (environmental, social and governance) investments are a way to both generate financial returns and do good for humanity. Whether we’re bridging the gap between traditional and electric vehicles, protecting infrastructure for current and future generations, or helping create eco-friendly alternatives to plastic products, we believe there’s sustainable work to be done in every industry.”
The feature was part of a special report highlighting Los Angeles-area investment firms that focus on impact investing.
Atar Capital is a global private investment firm that acquires a wide range of lower middle market businesses exhibiting opportunities for growth, revitalization and significant value creation. Atar Capital’s principals have collectively completed 90 private equity transactions across 18 countries worldwide.
Atar Capital’s combination of operational expertise, industry knowledge and investment experience provide a unique edge in creating value and working as a true partner with its affiliated companies. The firm assists in activities ranging from growing the business to improving operations and financial performance, leveraging all available resources and talent within Atar’s leadership team, as well as its bench of seasoned senior advisors with deep sector and functional expertise. For more information, please visit https://atarcapital.com/.
Senior Vice President Ammar Misto shares insights on value creation in exclusive one-on-one session at industry-leading event
West Palm Beach, FL, March 25, 2025 – Atar Capital, a global private investment firm based in Los Angeles, California, accepted the Private Equity Firm of the Year award at The M&A Advisor’s 19th Annual Turnaround Awards Gala on March 25, 2025, in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Ammar Misto, Senior Vice President and Head of Business Development at Atar Capital, represented the firm at The M&A Advisor’s Distressed Investing Summit, held between March 24 and 25. Misto, who leads deal origination for the firm, joined industry leaders in discussions about current market dynamics and value-creation strategies in private equity.
“Being named Private Equity Firm of the Year is a testament to our team’s dedication and our distinctive approach to value creation,” said Cyrus Nikou, Founder and Managing Partner of Atar Capital. “Throughout 2024, we’ve demonstrated our ability to execute complex transactions and drive operational excellence across our affiliated companies. This recognition reinforces our commitment to identifying unique opportunities and implementing strategic initiatives that deliver sustainable growth and positive impact.”
This honor recognizes Atar Capital’s exceptional leadership and success in transforming corporate carve-outs and underperforming businesses within the lower middle market. The firm is also showcasing continued momentum in 2025, building on a proven track record of successful acquisitions, affiliate improvements, and value creation in complex turnaround situations.
“Atar Capital exemplifies the excellence and innovation that drives the turnaround and restructuring sectors forward,” said Roger Aguinaldo, Founder and CEO of The M&A Advisor. “Their strategic approach to complex transactions and consistent ability to create value in challenging situations sets them apart in the private equity landscape.”
Looking ahead, Atar Capital continues to focus on identifying opportunities for growth and value creation across its affiliated companies, with particular emphasis on sustainability initiatives and operational excellence. The acquisition of Kendrion’s automotive business by Atar Capital affiliate company Solero Technologies in 2024 and the successful exit of affiliate Microcel exemplifies how Atar Capital’s hands-on investment approach is driving innovation and positive impact in its affiliated companies while delivering strong performance. The firm maintains its commitment to transforming businesses that drive positive change across various sectors, from sustainability to mental health services.
Atar Capital’s presence at the Distressed Investing Summit and the 19th Turnaround Awards Gala highlights the firm’s role as a leader in the private equity community. By accepting the award in person, Atar Capital reaffirms its commitment to excellence in the sector and its dedication to sharing insights and best practices with fellow industry leaders.
The 2025 Distressed Investing Summit brought together more than 200 leading professionals in restructuring, investing, and corporate development. The two-day event serves as the premier gathering for industry leaders to exchange insights and explore emerging opportunities in distressed investing and corporate restructuring.
“The private equity landscape is evolving rapidly, and our focus remains on identifying opportunities where we can apply our operational expertise to create lasting value,” said Ammar Misto. “This recognition validates our approach to complex situations with potential for growth while maintaining our commitment to sustainable growth and best-in-class business practices.”
About Atar Capital
Atar Capital is a global private investment firm that acquires a wide range of lower middle market businesses exhibiting opportunities for growth, revitalization and significant value creation. Atar Capital’s principals have collectively completed 90 private equity transactions across 18 countries worldwide.
Atar Capital’s combination of operational expertise, industry knowledge and investment experience provide a unique edge in creating value and working as a true partner with its affiliated companies. The firm assists in activities ranging from growing the business to improving operations and financial performance, leveraging all available resources and talent within Atar’s leadership team, as well as its bench of seasoned senior advisors with deep sector and functional expertise. For more information, please visit https://atarcapital.com/.
About The M&A Advisor
Now in its 27th year, The M&A Advisor was founded to offer insights and intelligence on mergers and acquisitions, establishing the industry’s leading media outlet in 1998. Today, the firm is recognized as the world’s premier leadership organization for mergers & acquisition, restructuring and corporate finance professionals, delivering a range of integrated services, including the most active online community of M&A professionals called M&A Connects. www.maadvisor.com.
Atar Capital is pleased to highlight the recent appointment of Brad Laporte, Chief Executive Officer of portfolio company WinCup, to the New Jersey Plastics Advisory Council. This appointment by Governor Phil Murphy recognizes Laporte’s leadership in sustainable packaging solutions and WinCup and Atar Capital’s overall commitment to advancing environmentally responsible practices in the plastics industry.
“Brad’s appointment to the New Jersey Plastics Advisory Council reflects both his personal commitment and WinCup’s organizational dedication to developing sustainable solutions that the packaging industry and consumers use every day,” said Cyrus Nikou, Founder and Managing Partner of Atar Capital. “Atar Capital and WinCup remain committed in our partnership to bring innovative eco-friendly and marine biodegradable products to market, as well as promoting environmental responsibility while supporting economic growth.”
WinCup has become a pioneer in sustainable foodservice packaging, notably through the development and commercialization of phade®, the world’s first marine biodegradable, home and industrial compostable drinking straw. This innovative product has earned multiple industry accolades and represents a significant step forward in addressing global plastic pollution.
Atar Capital is a global private investment firm that acquires a wide range of lower middle market businesses exhibiting opportunities for growth, revitalization and significant value creation. Atar Capital’s principals have collectively completed 90 private equity transactions across 18 countries worldwide.
Atar Capital’s combination of operational expertise, industry knowledge and investment experience provide a unique edge in creating value and working as a true partner with its affiliated companies. The firm assists in activities ranging from growing the business to improving operations and financial performance, leveraging all available resources and talent within Atar’s leadership team, as well as its bench of seasoned senior advisors with deep sector and functional expertise. For more information, please visit https://atarcapital.com/.
About WinCup, Inc.
WinCup, Inc. is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and is a leading manufacturer of traditional and Eco-Friendly disposable cups, bowls, containers, lids, and straws. The company’s eight manufacturing locations across the U.S. are committed to high-quality products and superior customer service. To learn more, please visit www.wincup.com.
About New Jersey Plastic Advisory Council (PAC)
The PAC is charged with monitoring the implementation of the “Get Past Plastic” Law and evaluating its effectiveness in reducing single-use plastics and plastic waste in the State. The PAC is required to report on the implementation and effectiveness of the law and provide recommendations for legislative or administrative action to improve the implementation or effectiveness of the law.
The recognition underscores Atar Capital’s excellence in distressed investing and restructuring achievements.
Los Angeles, CA – January 16, 2025 – Atar Capital, a global private investment firm based in Los Angeles, California, has been honored as Private Equity Firm of the Year for The M&A Advisor’s 19th Annual Turnaround Awards. This recognition highlights Atar Capital’s exceptional leadership and success in transforming businesses within the distressed investing and restructuring space.
This win follows a year of significant wins for Atar Capital, including the successful acquisition of Kendrion’s automotive business by affiliate Solero Technologies and the sale of affiliate Microcel, a full-service distribution company. Founder and Managing Partner Cyrus Nikou has previously been recognized by M&A Advisor with the 2024 Thomas Farrell Memorial Award, and inducted into the publication’s Hall of Fame.
“Being recognized as Private Equity Firm of the Year is a testament to our team’s unwavering dedication to revitalizing lower-middle-market businesses and unlocking their full potential,” said Nikou. “Our focus has always been on creating sustainable growth and long-term value, and this honor reflects the impact of that mission.”
Atar Capital’s affiliate companies span food packaging, mental health services, automotive manufacturing, and more. The Atar Capital team provides a hands-on approach to the companies it takes on and leverages relationships, resources, and guidance to industry leaders building sustainable solutions for the current world and future generations.
“The winners of our 19th Annual Turnaround Awards demonstrate remarkable expertise and vision in navigating complex challenges,” said Roger Aguinaldo, founder and CEO of The M&A Advisor. “Atar Capital’s achievements reflect the highest standards of excellence and innovation in the industry, and we are delighted to celebrate their success.”
The award will be presented during a black-tie awards gala on March 25, 2025, at The Ben Hotel in Palm Beach, Florida. This gala event and Atar Capital’s commendation are features of the 2025 Distressed Investing Summit, which will bring together over 200 industry leaders for an engaging program of discussions, networking opportunities, and recognition of the industry’s best.
For a full list of winners from the 19th Annual Turnaround Awards, click here. To learn more about the 2025 Distressed Investing Summit, click here. For more about Atar Capital, visit AtarCapital.com.
About Atar Capital
Atar Capital is a global private investment firm that acquires a wide range of lower middle market businesses exhibiting opportunities for growth, revitalization and significant value creation. Atar Capital’s principals have collectively completed 90 private equity transactions across 18 countries worldwide.
Atar Capital’s combination of operational expertise, industry knowledge and investment experience provide a unique edge in creating value and working as a true partner with its affiliated companies. The firm assists in activities ranging from growing the business to improving operations and financial performance, leveraging all available resources and talent within Atar’s leadership team, as well as its bench of seasoned senior advisors with deep sector and functional expertise. For more information, please visit https://atarcapital.com/.
THE M&A ADVISOR
Now in its 26th year, The M&A Advisor was founded to offer insights and intelligence on mergers and acquisitions, establishing the industry’s leading media outlet in 1998. Today, the firm is recognized as the world’s premier leadership organization for mergers & acquisition, restructuring and corporate finance professionals, delivering a range of integrated services, including the most active online community of M&A professionals called M&A Connects. www.maadvisor.com.
