Kian Capital Transaction Announcement — Empire Equipment Company

Kian Capital is pleased to announce that it has invested senior subordinated debt and equity to acquire Empire Equipment Company, d/b/a Empire Marketing Group (“Empire” or the “Company”).

Founded in 1985 and headquartered in Goldsboro, North Carolina, Empire is a leading Southeast-based distributor of foodservice equipment and associated repair and maintenance products. Empire serves foodservice equipment dealers, buying groups, chain accounts, air conditioning and refrigeration equipment wholesalers, service companies, and broadliners throughout the Southeast United States. In addition to its Goldsboro distribution center, Empire operates distribution centers in Atlanta, Georgia, and Lakeland, Florida. the market.

Kian partnered with Crescendo Capital Partners, Stewart Capital Management, and Empire management to acquire the Company. the market.

Kevin McCarthy, Partner at Kian Capital, said “Kian is excited to partner with one of the largest wholesale distributors of foodservice equipment in the Southeast. Empire represents the ninth platform investment in wholesale distribution businesses made by Kian investment professionals, in addition to nearly 20 add-on investments in the space. We believe our financial and strategic support will help the Company capitalize on the opportunities that currently exist for Empire in the market.

Matt Levenson, Partner at Kian Capital, added “We are very impressed with the Company’s relationships with leading manufacturing partners and look forward to continuing these relationships to better serve our extensive dealer and customer network.  We look forward to working closely with Empire’s management team to execute our shared vision for growth.”