Atar Capital Affiliate Clarvida Named SHRM Foundation Visionary Partner in Untapped Talent Initiative

Clarivda joins SHRM and the SHRM Foundation for the Untapped Talent initiative to help organizations champion and implement inclusive hiring.

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Today, SHRM, the trusted authority on all things work, and the SHRM Foundation announced that Clarvida, one of the nation’s leading providers of behavioral health and human services, will join the SHRM Foundation Untapped Talent initiative as the first-ever Visionary Partner.

The Untapped Talent initiative helps organizations champion and implement inclusive hiring practices by engaging underutilized talent pools, including veterans, military spouses, individuals with disabilities, individuals aged 60 and older, those with a criminal record, opportunity youth, and others. As a Visionary Partner, Clarvida is making a bold commitment to hire untapped talent for the communities it serves. Clarvida is an expert at tackling the complex challenges facing people across the United States of America, through community-based solutions such as psychiatric services, counseling and therapy, foster care, and autism services.

There is a severe labor shortage in the American economy, and the behavioral health sector alone is projected to face a shortage of 250,000 professionals by 2025. Hiring from untapped talent pools benefits individual workers, communities, businesses, and the economy as a whole. In fact, research indicates that inclusive hiring practices result in a 22% lower turnover rate, benefiting both employees and the communities they serve.

SHRM Foundation will provide evidence-based strategies, learning, and actionable resources—such as the Employing Abilities at Work and Military Community at Work certificates—to Clarvida’s People team to empower them in hiring untapped talent. As a Visionary Partner, Clarvida will focus on training Talent Acquisition and Operations teams, creating educational pipelines, and placing individuals in roles that align with their strengths and career goals. The organization, an Atar Capital affiliate, will pilot the Untapped Talent initiative in eight states—California, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Washington, and West Virginia—and aims to expand to 17 states by 2026.

“We applaud Clarvida for making such a visionary commitment to drive societal progress and community impact,” said Wendi Safstrom, SHRM Foundation president. “By increasing awareness and implementing targeted strategies, Clarvida will enhance their workforce with diverse and capable talent while serving as a model for other organizations. The value of untapped talent must be recognized as more than a matter of social good or community goodwill. Workers from untapped talent pools provide high return on investment and unique, in-demand skills. Greater inclusivity in hiring practices opens doors to more equitable and diverse work environments where both businesses and employees can thrive.” 

“America’s labor shortage demands immediate and innovative solutions, and this initiative represents a bold step forward in reimagining how we recruit and support diverse talent,” said Steve Wigginton, CEO of Clarvida. “Through our partnership with the SHRM Foundation, Clarvida is creating a replicable model for inclusive hiring that benefits individuals, families, and entire communities. Individuals from untapped talent pools can thrive in roles that align with their skills, while communities benefit from expanded access to quality care.”

“Workplace leaders and HR professionals can also join in the Untapped Talent initiative,” said Safstrom. “Adopting SHRM Foundation’s training programs and creating tailored onboarding and development pathways can help companies of all sizes offer structured career opportunities for all, even with limited resources.” 

For more information on the Untapped Talent initiative, visit https://untappedtalent.shrm.org.  

Facts About Untapped Talent Pools

  • Ninety-three percent (93%) of HR professionals agreed (to any extent) that their organization values veterans in the workplace. Yet less than a third (31%) agreed or strongly agreed that their organization is effective at hiring veterans. (Source: SHRM)
  • In 2022, only 21% of individuals with disabilities were employed, compared to 65% of those without disabilities. Among HR professionals and managers who are aware of employees with disabilities in their organization, almost all HR professionals (97%) and managers (92%) report that these employees consistently perform as well as or better than their colleagues without disabilities. (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, SHRM)
  • Approximately 4.7 million youth aged 16-24 are neither in school nor working in the U.S. With 7 million unfilled jobs in October 2024, this presents an opportunity for organizations to fill their talent gaps as organizations that invest in hiring opportunity youth are less likely to experience talent shortages (55% vs. 71%). (Source: Measure of America, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, SHRM)
  • One in three American adults has a criminal record, yet 27% of these individuals face unemployment. Eighty-one percent (81%) of business leaders and HR professionals believe the quality of hire of workers with criminal records is about the same or better than workers without. Additionally, second-chance hiring not only provides economic mobility but also reduces recidivism by 13%, contributing to safer and stronger communities. (Source: National Employment Law Project, SHRM)
  • Between 2023 and 2033, the U.S. labor force aged 65 and over is projected to grow by 32.4%, nearly nine times the growth rate of the overall labor force during the same period (3.7%). (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

About the SHRM Foundation 

SHRM Foundation empowers Human Resources as a force for social good. As the nonprofit arm of SHRM, the world’s largest HR professional society, the Foundation believes that HR holds a unique position to lead change in the face of complex challenges within the world of work. The organization mobilizes and equips HR to ensure the prosperity and thriving of talent and workplaces. The Foundation works by widening pathways to work for more skills-first candidates and more kinds of talent; tackling societal challenges with a current focus on workplace mental health and wellness; and strengthening the HR field with even more diversity, growth, and readiness to address these needs. SHRM Foundation works with SHRM, courageous partners and bold investors, to generate awareness, action, and impact to build a world of work that works for all. Discover more at SHRMFoundation.org.   

About SHRM 

SHRM is a member-driven catalyst for creating better workplaces where people and businesses thrive together. As the trusted authority on all things work, SHRM is the foremost expert, researcher, advocate, and thought leader on issues and innovations impacting today’s evolving workplaces. With nearly 340,000 members in 180 countries, SHRM touches the lives of more than 362 million workers and their families globally. Discover more at SHRM.org. 

About Clarvida  

Clarvida, formerly Pathways Health and Community Support, LLC, is a national provider of behavioral health and human services that serves nearly 60,000 clients and thousands of underserved communities annually. Clarvida is an expert at tackling the complex challenges facing people across America, with operations in 17 states. The company delivers innovative, personalized, community-based solutions such as psychiatric services, counseling and therapy, foster care, autism services and residential serv ices for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As a champion for those who receive care and those who provide it, Clarvida’s mission is to empower people to achieve their personal best, by being the nation’s preferred provider, employer and community partner for health and human services. 

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 Founder Cyrus Nikou Recognized with 2024 Thomas Farrell Memorial Award and Inducted into The M&A Advisor Hall of Fame

The award highlights Nikou’s leadership and contributions to the M&A industry, Atar Capital Recognized as a finalist for Private Equity Firm of the Year

New York, NY – November 21, 2024 – Last night, Cyrus Nikou, Founder and Managing Partner of Atar Capital, was honored with the 2024 Thomas Farrell Memorial Award and inducted into the M&A Advisor’s Hall of Fame at the 23rd Annual M&A Advisor Awards, held during the 2024 Future of Dealmaking Summit. These prestigious recognitions celebrate his exceptional leadership and impact on the mergers and acquisitions sector.

The Thomas Farrell Memorial Award is presented annually to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the M&A industry. Nikou was recognized for his leadership in the private equity sector, his ability to transform lower-middle-market businesses, and his ongoing commitment to community involvement. His strategic vision and dedication to creating lasting value in companies affecting change in sustainability, mental health, and other sectors has made him a standout figure in the M&A space.

“I’m honored to receive the Thomas Farrell Memorial Award, which recognizes not only my efforts but the collective work of the entire Atar Capital team,” said Nikou. “This achievement is a reflection of our shared commitment to partnering with businesses and creating lasting value. It underscores the power of teamwork, dedication, and a shared vision to drive growth for the companies we invest in. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and excited for the future we’re building.”

Nikou was introduced by Atar Capital’s managing director, Stanley Huang. “Cyrus exemplifies what the present and future of the Mergers & Acquisitions industry looks like,” said Huang. “Since beginning Atar Capital in 2016, he’s led our team with a noble, company-wide directive: Identify innovative companies making a positive impact for future generations and guide them through the next phase of their business.”

The M&A Advisor Awards, which brought together over 500 industry leaders at Manhattan’s iconic New York Athletic Club, also saw the Atar Capital team in attendance. The team continues to build on its strong presence within the M&A community. In addition to Nikou’s recognition, Atar Capital was named a finalist in the “Private Equity Firm of the Year” category for the 23rd Annual M&A Advisor Awards.

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/ .

Cyrus Nikou to Receive the 2024 Thomas Farrell Memorial Award

New York, November 14, 2024 – The M&A Advisor is excited to announce that Cyrus Nikou, Founder and Managing Partner at Atar Capital, will be recognized as the 2024 Thomas Farrell Memorial Award recipient. Mr. Nikou will be honored for his outstanding contributions to the M&A industry at the 23rd Annual M&A Advisor Awards, a black-tie gala and a highlight of the 2024 Future of Dealmaking Summit, on Wednesday, November 20, at the iconic New York Athletic Club in New York.

“We are proud to honor Cyrus Nikou with the 2024 Thomas Farrell Memorial Award,” said Roger Aguinaldo, Founder and CEO of The M&A Advisor. “Cyrus is an exemplary leader who truly embodies the values this prestigious award represents—industry leadership, transactional excellence, and a strong commitment to community involvement. Each year, for more than two decades, The M&A Advisor has had the privilege of recognizing the most accomplished and impactful dealmakers, and Cyrus is undoubtedly a deserving recipient of this honor.”

The M&A Advisor established the Thomas Farrell Memorial Award in 2017 to honor the memory of Thomas “Tom” Farrell, former Executive Vice President of investment banking firm Generational Equity, and to celebrate his outstanding contributions to the M&A industry. The Award is presented each year to the individual chosen by their peers to have made the most remarkable contribution to the advancement of the industry.

“This year’s Thomas Farrell Memorial Award recognizes Cyrus Nikou, whose career achievements to date exemplify the excellence of industry stalwarts who give back to the community,” said Roger Aguinaldo, Founder and CEO of The M&A Advisor. “Cyrus has consistently distinguished himself not only through his intelligence and strategic vision but also through his integrity and impact. I have no doubt that Tom Farrell, whose legacy this award honors, would be immensely proud of Cyrus as this year’s recipient.”

Mr. Nikou is the Founder and Managing Partner at Atar Capital, which he founded in 2016. Atar Capital, a leading lower-middle market private investment firm, is dedicated to socially responsible investing and sustainable solutions for global challenges. Mr. Nikou is committed to making smart, targeted investments that benefit future generations; as well as guiding Atar Capital’s mergers and acquisitions, corporate development, and overall operations to bring that vision to life. He serves as an advisor to several companies in the Atar Capital portfolio, including WinCup Corporation, Clarvida, Keypoint Intelligence, Frontier Integrity Services, and Solero Technologies. Atar’s global holdings span more than a dozen companies, with combined annual revenues of $1.8 billion and upwards of 14,500 employees worldwide.

Beyond his work at Atar, Mr. Nikou is deeply committed to community service, supporting organizations like the I Have a Dream Foundation, Upward Bound House, and Los Angeles Children’s Hospital. He also serves on the board of The Sierra Canyon School, furthering his dedication to giving back. A native of British Columbia, he earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration and corporate finance from the Marshall School of Business at USC, where he laid the foundation for his successful career in business and investment.

In addition to being recognized as the Thomas Farrell Memorial Award recipient, Mr. Nikou will also be inducted into The M&A Advisor’s Hall of Fame, a feature of the 2024 Future of Dealmaking Summit, during The M&A Advisor’s Signature Awards Gala on November 20.

The M&A Advisor was founded in 1998 to offer insights and intelligence on mergers and acquisitions through the industry’s leading publication. Today, the firm is recognized as the world’s premier “think tank” and leadership organization for M&A, restructuring and financing professionals, providing a range of integrated services including: M&A Advisor Summits; M&A Advisor Awards; M&A Connects Online Community; M&A Connects Networking and One-on-One Meetings; M&A TV; M&A Alerts; and M&A Advisor Podcasts. For additional information about The M&A Advisor’s leadership services visit www.maadvisor.com.

Atar Capital Announced as a Finalist in the 23rd Annual M&A Advisor Awards

The recognition highlights Atar Capital’s strides to growing companies through impactful investment

LOS ANGELES — The M&A Advisor has announced the finalists for the 23rd Annual M&A Advisor Awards, and Atar Capital has been named as a finalist in the “Private Equity Firm of the Year” award category. These awards recognize the organizations leading the industry in categories, such as Private Equity, M&A Transactions, Corporate/Strategic, Financing Deals, and more.

“For nearly 26 years, The M&A Advisor has celebrated top M&A transactions, companies, and dealmakers. Atar Capital was selected from hundreds of participating companies as an award finalist for the 23rd Annual M&A Advisor Awards. We are pleased to recognize Atar Capital for its excellence in the industry,” said Roger Aguinaldo, Founder and CEO of The M&A Advisor. “This honor reflects Atar Capital’s outstanding performance among a strong group of very impressive candidates for The M&A Advisor award.”

“We’re excited to be named a finalist for The M&A Advisor’s ‘Private Equity Firm of the Year’ award,” said Cyrus Nikou, Founder and Managing Partner of Atar Capital. “This award underscores our firm’s ongoing commitment to partnering with organizations in the lower-middle market who are bettering the world through purpose-based initiatives.”

The winners will be revealed during a prestigious Black-Tie Awards Gala at the 2024 Future of Dealmaking Summit, taking place on November 19 & 20, 2024, in New York City. This premier event will bring together over 500 top professionals from the industry for exclusive interactive fire-side chats, M&A TV interviews, and one-on-one meetings. Attendees will benefit from insights shared by a distinguished lineup of M&A industry leaders and business media experts.

For a complete list of winners, please visit the link 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 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 www.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.

Atar Capital Announces Affiliate Solero Technologies’ Acquisition of Kendrion’s Automotive Business

The transaction reflects Atar Capital’s portfolio growth and commitment to sustainable investment

LOS ANGELES— Atar Capital, a Los Angeles-based global private investment firm, today announced its affiliate Solero Technologies’ successful acquisition of Kendrion’s (KENDR.AS) automotive business in the United States and Europe.

The sale netted at an enterprise value of $67.1 million. The revenues of the divested activities amounted to $231 million with an EBITDA contribution of $23.1 million USD.

Solero Technologies is a global supplier of controls offering a comprehensive range of actuator and solenoid valve solutions that support many automotive systems including Transmission & E-Drives, Active Suspension, Thermal Management, Engine, and Comfort. Solero has served the automotive industry for more than 50 years with a reputation for our safety, quality, and precision. Atar Capital acquired Solero Technologies in 2021, adding to its portfolio of purpose-driven companies through impactful investing.

“This is an exciting opportunity to expand Atar’s purpose-driven automotive affiliate,” said Cyrus Nikou, founder of Atar Capital. “By uniting these complementary businesses, Solero is poised to accelerate the development and deployment of innovative automotive technologies that reduce environmental impact. We’re honored to partner with the Kendrion team and leverage their deep industry expertise to drive forward-thinking solutions that will shape the next generation of mobility.”

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 www.atarcapital.com.

About Solero Technologies

Solero Technologies is a leading global supplier of transmission solenoids, engine solenoids, stop-start accumulators, and hydraulic control modules with recent development and launches of active suspension and electrification components. The company’s capabilities include advanced design, prototyping, development, and manufacturing excellence combined with a strong intellectual property portfolio across all product categories. Solero Technologies has built an acclaimed reputation for developing and delivering high quality solenoid products to automotive OEMs, the aftermarket and other industrial sectors. The company’s industry-leading solenoid products are critical to the optimal performance of vehicles today and tomorrow. Today, the company operates from its manufacturing facility in Water Valley, Mississippi, along with related sales and engineering operations in Detroit. Visit www.solerotechnologies.com for more information.

About Kendrion N.V.

Kendrion designs, manufactures, and delivers intelligent actuators that help advance the global push towards electrification and sustainable energy. Today, these compact and connected actuators are used in wind power, robots, factory automation, electric vehicles, energy distribution and industrial heating processes, supporting the company’s OEM customers around the world in transitioning to safer and cleaner forms of energy.

As a technology pioneer and innovator, building on a foundation of over one hundred years of experience, Kendrion is driven by a desire to explore creative solutions for the engineering challenges of tomorrow. The company takes broad responsibility for how they source, manufacture, and conduct business. Sustainable business practices are integrated in the company’s processes and embedded in their culture. Rooted in Germany, headquartered in the Netherlands, and listed on the Amsterdam stock exchange, the company’s footprint extends across Europe to the Americas and Asia.

Atar Capital Strengthens Operational Leadership with Appointment of Nick Polanski as Director in Operations

Veteran industry executive brings proven track record of business transformation and value creation to Atar Capital’s investment strategy

LOS ANGELES–Atar Capital is pleased to announce that Nick Polanski has joined the team as a Director in Operations. He will focus on commercial and operational due diligence for new transactions in addition to providing operational support to Atar’s affiliated companies.

Nick brings extensive experience into his role at Atar Capital, having led and transformed businesses to help drive profitability and growth across global organizations. His skill set and recent achievements at Culligan International exemplifies the type of operational acumen Atar Capital seeks to enhance company performance.

“Nick’s exceptional ability to drive operational excellence and his proven track record in transforming businesses align perfectly with our impactful investment strategy,” said Cyrus Nikou, Founder and Managing Partner at Atar Capital. “His appointment underscores our commitment to bringing world-class talent to Atar, and we’re confident that his leadership will advance us to new heights of operational excellence and market leadership.”

Prior to joining Atar, Nick’s career spanned diverse industries and leadership roles. Most recently he served as President of Filtration at Culligan International. His professional journey began with a decade at Danaher, followed by strategic roles at Stanley Black & Decker, Assa Abloy, Innocor, and General Electric. Nick’s experience extends to management consulting, where he specialized in large-scale private equity transformations at Next Level Partners. Nick holds a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Akron and is an alum of the IMD Business School in Lausanne, Switzerland.

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 www.atarcapital.com.

Atar Capital Announces the Strategic Exit of Full-Service Distribution Company

The exit positions the firm for future operational growth

LOS ANGELES– Atar Capital, a Los Angeles-based global private investment firm, announced today the sale of its affiliate, Microcel, a leader in the distribution of global technology and innovation brands across Canada, to TDL Gentek. The deal closed on July 17th.

Originally founded in 1989 in Newmarket, Ontario, the Company offers distribution and value-add services to an established portfolio of global brands, as well as a proven multi-channel customer base that includes Canada’s most prominent big-box retailers, consumer electronics stores, specialty retailers, and e-commerce marketplaces. Microcel works with leading brands such as Google, fitbit, Starlink, Anker, Beurer, Blendjet, and Polaroid. Atar Capital acquired Microcel in November 2018.

“We’re excited to announce the successful exit of Microcel,” said Cyrus Nikou, founder of Atar Capital. “We’re proud of the infrastructure investments we supported over the last six years that laid the foundation for the company to expand their brand management and distribution capabilities. This sale marks an exciting opportunity for the continued growth of our mission to build a portfolio of sustainable and purpose-driven businesses.”

“The partnership and support that Atar Capital has given to our talented team has been essential to our success up to this point,” said Adam Ingrao, Chief Executive Officer of Microcel. “Their commitment to our vision has helped enable our expansion in Canada, and we’re excited to see the platform grow further with TDL Gentek.”

“We are excited to welcome Microcel to the TDL Gentek family,” said Laurie Tugman, CEO of TDL Gentek. “This acquisition is a significant step forward in our vision to expand and enhance our consumer goods division in Canada. We look forward to continuing to grow the Microcel business with our brand partners and customers.”

The transaction was facilitated with the legal counsel of Miller Thomson. Kroll Corporate Finance Canada served as the financial advisor.

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 www.atarcapital.com.

About Microcel

Since its inception in 1989, Microcel has become one of Canada’s leading distributors of innovative lifestyle products, providing access to the Canadian retail market to prominent global brands such as Google, fitbit, Anker, Starlink, Polaroid, and Beurer, that offer a wide variety of product types, from wearables, portable audio, and medi-tech, to smart home, kitchen, and outdoor solutions. Based in Newmarket, Ontario, Microcel leverages its superior product marketing and value-added services as an omni-channel distributor to Canada’s largest big box national retailers, e-commerce, and DIY, outdoor, and tech specialty stores such as Walmart, Costco, Best Buy, Amazon, Loblaws, London Drugs, Home Depot, Sport Chek, Canadian Tire, MEC, and the North West Company, among many others.

About TDL

TDL Gentek is a leading Canadian distributor with 45 years of experience in value-added distribution. Specializing in technology, telecommunications, and consumer goods, TDL Gentek offers over 250 brands across various categories, including Broadband, Security, Unified Communications, Networking, ProAV, and Consumer Goods. Known for its expertise and value-added services, TDL Gentek is committed to helping its partners build the right solutions for their customers.

Atar Capital Announces Solero Technologies Signs Agreement to Acquire Kendrion’s Automotive Business 

The acquisition will enable Solero Technologies to expand its portfolio of sustainable automotive products and global presence 

LOS ANGELES – April 15,  2024 – Atar Capital, a Los Angeles-based global private investment firm, announced today that  Solero Technologies has signed an agreement with Kendrion (KENDR.AS) to acquire Kendrion’s automotive business in Europe and the United States. Solero Technologies will effectuate the transaction with support from Atar Capital. 

The transaction is expected to close in Q3 2024, subject to customary conditions. The transaction has an enterprise value of roughly USD 70 million (EUR 65 million). The revenue associated with the divestment is around USD 225.5 million (EUR 210 million), with TTM EBITDA of approximately USD 24.1 million (EUR 22.5 million) and represents approximately 80% of Kendrion’s automotive business. 

Solero Technologies is a leading global supplier of transmission solenoids, engine solenoids, stop-start accumulators, and hydraulic control modules with recent development and launches of active suspension and electrification components. It has served the automotive industry for more than 50 years with a reputation for its quality, precision, and safety. Kendrion’s automotive business designs, manufactures, and delivers intelligent actuators that help advance the global push towards electrification and sustainable energy. 

“With a commitment to shaping the future of mobility that prioritizes  both people and the environment, the acquisition of Kendrion’s automotive business will further expand Atar’s purpose-driven portfolio into the automotive industry,” said Cyrus Nikou, founder of Atar Capital. “We’re confident this solidifies Solero’s leadership position in the space and we look forward to collaborating with the Kendrion team on the transition.” 

“Kendrion’s automotive product portfolio is complementary and well aligned with Solero Technologies’ inorganic growth strategy,” said Dr. Donald James, CEO of Solero Technologies. “The combined company will be well-positioned for capitalizing on global opportunities that support the industry transformation to electrification and sustainability.” 

To learn more about Solero Technologies, please visit the company’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 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 www.atarcapital.com

About Solero Technologies 

Solero Technologies is a leading global supplier of transmission solenoids, engine solenoids, stop-start accumulators, and hydraulic control modules with recent development and launches of active suspension and electrification components. The company’s capabilities include advanced design, prototyping, development, and manufacturing excellence combined with a strong intellectual property portfolio across all product categories. Solero Technologies has built an acclaimed reputation for developing and delivering high quality solenoid products to automotive OEMs, the aftermarket and other industrial sectors. The company’s industry-leading solenoid products are critical to the optimal performance of vehicles today and tomorrow. Today, the company operates from its manufacturing facility in Water Valley, Mississippi, along with related sales and engineering operations in Detroit. Visit www.solerotechnologies.com for more information. 

About Kendrion N.V. 

Kendrion designs, manufactures, and delivers intelligent actuators that help advance the global push towards electrification and sustainable energy. Today, these compact and connected actuators are used in wind power, robots, factory automation, electric vehicles, energy distribution and industrial heating processes, supporting the company’s OEM customers around the world in transitioning to safer and cleaner forms of energy. 

As a technology pioneer and innovator, building on a foundation of over one hundred years of experience, Kendrion is driven by a desire to explore creative solutions for the engineering challenges of tomorrow. The company takes broad responsibility for how they source, manufacture, and conduct business. Sustainable business practices are integrated in the company’s processes and embedded in their culture. Rooted in Germany, headquartered in the Netherlands, and listed on the Amsterdam stock exchange, the company’s footprint extends across Europe to the Americas and Asia. 

Revolutionize Your Document Services with Keypoint Intelligence’s AI Advisory Offering 

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence is no longer a luxury but a necessity. At Atar Capital, we are thrilled to announce the latest addition to Keypoint Intelligence’s portfolio: Artificial Intelligence in Document Services. This cutting-edge offering is designed to equip businesses with the insights and strategies needed to thrive in the AI-driven era. 

With over six decades of expertise in the print and document management space, Keypoint Intelligence is your trusted partner for navigating the complexities of AI integration. Their newly launched AI advisory service is tailored to provide comprehensive competitive analysis and strategic guidance, enabling organizations to unlock the full potential of AI in their operations. 

At the core of their offering is a commitment to empowering businesses with actionable insights and recommendations for leveraging AI. Through in-depth research and analysis, they identify key AI functionalities in demand and advise on their integration into managed print services, document management systems, and other market solutions. Their goal is to help businesses accelerate document processing, improve infrastructure efficiency, enhance customer satisfaction, and drive revenue growth through AI-powered offerings. 

Additionally, their partnership with Gowest.ai further strengthens their commitment to enable clients to harness the full potential of AI with confidence. Together, they offer comprehensive AI readiness assessments designed to help businesses understand where AI can streamline their workflows and drive ROI. 

At Atar Capital, we understand the pivotal role that AI plays in shaping the future of business operations. With Keypoint Intelligence’s AI in Document Services, you can harness the power of AI to unlock new opportunities, drive innovation, and stay ahead in today’s competitive landscape. Join us in embracing the future of AI-powered solutions. 

Atar Capital Adds Brett Crowell, Esq., to the Team as Director 

Global private investment firm will leverage Crowell’s legal, taxation expertise to support its best-in-class transaction due diligence and operations 

LOS ANGELES, CA – Atar Capital is pleased to announce that Brett Crowell has joined the team as a Director. Brett will play a pivotal role in enhancing the firm’s financial and commercial due diligence processes and will enable Atar Capital to seamlessly cover all aspects of transacting and managing its portfolio companies. 

Brett brings a wealth of experience to Atar Capital, having co-led the M&A tax practice at GHJ, where he advised on both buy-side and sell-side domestic and cross-border transactions. At GHJ, Brett not only demonstrated his prowess in the M&A realm but also led a practice that introduced innovative client services and provided essential internal tax support.  

“Having Brett’s expertise as an attorney, taxation expert and transactional counsel will enable Atar Capital to conduct deals with speed and certainty as well as having all the major disciplinaries in house for managing our portfolio companies,” said Cyrus Nikou, Founder and Managing Partner at Atar Capital. “We look forward to the impactful contributions Brett will undoubtedly make to Atar Capital’s continued success and growth.” 

Brett began his career at Armanino LLP, where he served as a law firm management consultant before transitioning into a federal estate, gift, and trust tax specialist role. Brett is a licensed attorney in the State of California, with a J.D. and LL.M. in taxation from the University of San Diego School of Law and a B.A. from the University of California, Santa Barbara. 

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 portfolio companies to unlock their full potential. For more information, visit www.atarcapital.com