Littlejohn & Co., a private investment firm based in Greenwich, Connecticut, has acquired 80/20, a provider of premium, configurable modular framing solutions, from MPE Partners. Financial terms were not disclosed. Headquartered in Columbia City, Indiana, 80/20 sells modular framing used in automation, productivity, and safety applications across a range of industrial end markets.
Littlejohn said 80/20’s positioning is supported by a catalog of more than 8,500 configurable SKUs, proprietary design software, advanced in-house machining and kitting, and value-added services designed to deliver fast lead times. The company reaches customers through an omni-channel go-to-market strategy that includes automation integrators, MRO distributors, eCommerce, and direct sales.
Littlejohn framed the deal as a platform investment aligned with trends reshaping industrial operations, including automation and robotics, modular industrial design, lean manufacturing, and rising demand for reconfigurable and ergonomic workspaces. The firm said it plans to expand 80/20’s capabilities and geographic reach as it executes its growth plan.
Support: The transaction also included multiple advisors. Jefferies served as sole financial advisor to Littlejohn. Baird acted as lead financial advisor to 80/20, with Houlihan Lokey providing co-advisory services. McDermott Will & Schulte provided legal counsel to Littlejohn.
KEY QUOTES
“We are thrilled to partner with 80/20 and its dedicated team as they continue to build a market-leading automation platform. The company’s custom design tools, comprehensive product offering, and national footprint position it as a highly valued partner to their long-tenured customer base. We look forward to expanding 80/20’s capabilities and geographic reach as it seeks to execute on its growth plan.”
Steven Kalter, Managing Director, Littlejohn & Co.
“With 30 years of experience in the industrial distribution and products sectors, we have developed a first-hand appreciation for 80/20’s pristine reputation and the ubiquitous application of its products across the industrial ecosystem. We are excited to invest behind a best-in-class platform at the intersection of several compelling trends including automation, robotics, modular industrial design, lean manufacturing, and the growing demand for reconfigurable, ergonomic workspaces.”
Aaron Wasserman, Principal, Littlejohn & Co.
“Littlejohn has a strong track record of supporting and scaling manufacturing and distribution businesses, and we are excited to have them as partners at this stage in the company’s evolution. We look forward to leveraging Littlejohn’s portfolio support resources to accelerate our growth while maintaining best-in-class quality and service levels for our customers.”
Doug Waldal, Chief Executive Officer, 80/20
