Kelvin Group, a national provider of industrial and commercial mission-critical mechanical refrigeration services backed by Southfield Capital, has acquired PermaCold Engineering, an industrial refrigeration company headquartered in the Pacific Northwest. Terms were not disclosed.
Announced January 7, 2026, the deal marks Kelvin’s 14th acquisition since partnering with Southfield and extends Kelvin’s geographic footprint into the Pacific Northwest as it pursues a national expansion strategy. Kelvin said the addition of PermaCold helps position the platform as a coast-to-coast mechanical services provider.
Founded more than 30 years ago by Steve Jackson and Randy Cieloha, PermaCold is known for designing, installing, and servicing industrial refrigeration systems, with particular expertise in ammonia and CO2 refrigeration. The company supports customers across the western United States and is recognized for delivering complex, high-performance refrigeration solutions.
PermaCold will join Kelvin Group’s family of companies, which includes brands such as ARC Mechanical, Refrigeration Design & Service (RD&S), RC&E, HCG Associates, and JS Compliance. Kelvin said the combination will broaden capabilities for customers in end markets including food and beverage, cold storage, pharmaceuticals, education, health care, and other process industries, alongside process safety management and environmental compliance services.
Deerpath Capital Management and Crescent Capital provided debt financing for the transaction. G2 Capital Advisors served as buy-side advisor to Kelvin, and Finn, Dixon & Herling provided legal counsel to Kelvin and Southfield Capital.
KEY QUOTES:
“Kelvin’s acquisition of PermaCold represents an exciting milestone as the company continues its national expansion strategy by entering the Pacific Northwest. PermaCold’s deep technical expertise, admired technician team and customer service focus makes them a natural partner for Kelvin. Together, we look forward to offering an enhanced set of capabilities to support our combined customer base.”
Harry Gray, CEO, Kelvin Group
“When we decided to sell, Randy and I were adamant in locating an organization that shares our company’s culture and values relating to customers and employees, and Kelvin more than achieved this goal. We’re excited to leverage Kelvin’s national footprint to better serve our customers while staying true to the values that have guided us for more than 30 years.”
Steve Jackson, Co-Founder, PermaCold Engineering
“We are delighted to welcome the PermaCold team to the Kelvin family. PermaCold has built a phenomenal reputation in the Pacific Northwest and their addition bolsters Kelvin’s geographic coverage, establishing Kelvin as a coast-to-coast mechanical services provider.”
Chris Grambling, Partner, Southfield Capital
