Alba Expands with Strategic Acquisition of The Perishable Specialist
Deal News | May 20, 2025 | Southfield Capital Advisors LL
Southfield Capital, a private equity firm focused on the lower middle market, has facilitated a significant acquisition for Alba Wheels Up. The customs brokerage and logistics services provider, headquartered in Valley Stream, New York, has acquired The Perishable Specialist, Inc. (PSI), a specialist in perishable goods logistics, especially produce. This acquisition strengthens Alba's expertise and operational footprint in Miami, an essential hub for perishables. Under the ownership of Frank and Ana Ramos, PSI has served U.S. importers of fruits and vegetables for over 20 years with a strong focus on time-sensitive, regulated products. Both Frank and Ana will remain with the business, ensuring continuity. Alba’s nationwide network will offer PSI customers enhanced logistics services, integrating advanced transportation and trade compliance solutions. This strategic acquisition underscores Alba's position as a major player in logistics solutions for the produce industry, with support from Southfield Capital, which aims to grow its investments through both organic and acquisition strategies.
Sectors
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management
- Private Equity
- Perishable Goods
Geography
- United States – Alba Wheels Up is headquartered in New York, and the acquisition expands its presence in Miami, Florida, a key location for perishables logistics.
- Central and South America – Ana and Frank Ramos, the leaders of The Perishable Specialist, are noted for their industry influence in Miami and across Central and South America.
Industry
- Logistics and Supply Chain Management – The article revolves around Alba Wheels Up acquiring The Perishable Specialist to enhance logistics capabilities, especially in the perishables sector.
- Private Equity – Southfield Capital, a private equity firm, plays a central role in facilitating the acquisition, demonstrating an investment strategy in the lower middle market.
- Perishable Goods – The acquisition centers on logistics services tailored to perishable goods like fresh produce, highlighting the intricate supply chain requirements for time-sensitive commodities.
Financials
- $4 - $20 million EBITDA – Target range for the companies Southfield Capital seeks to invest in.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alba Wheels Up | Bidding Company/Buyer | Company | A provider of customs brokerage, freight forwarding, trade compliance and other logistics services. |
| The Perishable Specialist, Inc. | Target Company | Company | A company specializing in importing perishable goods, particularly fresh produce. |
| Southfield Capital | Private Equity Company | Company | A private equity firm that focuses on lower middle market companies, particularly in outsourced business services. |
| Frank and Ana Ramos | Owners of Target Company | People | Industry veterans who own and will continue to lead The Perishable Specialist. |
| Luis Eraa | CEO of Alba | Person | Chief Executive Officer of Alba Wheels Up. |
| Heb James | Partner at Southfield Capital | Person | A partner at Southfield Capital who commented on the strategic acquisition. |