Eagle Railcar Services Set for New Growth Phase as EQT Takes Over
Deal News | Apr 01, 2025 | EQT
EQT, through its EQT Infrastructure VI fund, has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Eagle Railcar Services, a leading provider of railcar repair and maintenance services in North America, from JM Texas Companies. Founded in 2001 by Marc and Joe Walraven, Eagle Railcar Services has expanded from one location in Elkhart, Texas, to 13 strategically located facilities across the United States. The company specializes in regulatory compliance, tank car repair, and requalification inspections for railcars, serving sectors such as chemicals, agriculture, energy, and industrial manufacturing. This acquisition is expected to capitalize on market growth driven by increased regulatory scrutiny and industrial production. EQT plans to leverage its expertise in transportation and logistics to support Eagle's operational excellence, automation, digitization, and geographical expansion. The transaction is subject to customary conditions and approvals, anticipated to close in Q2 2025.
Sectors
- Transportation and Logistics
- Private Equity
Geography
- United States – Eagle Railcar Services operates 13 facilities across the U.S., making it a significant geographic focus of the acquisition.
Industry
- Transportation and Logistics – The article focuses on the acquisition of Eagle Railcar Services, a key player in railcar maintenance, which is a critical part of the transportation infrastructure.
- Private Equity – EQT's acquisition of Eagle Railcar Services is a maneuver typical of private equity investments aimed at leveraging industry growth and operational efficiency.
Financials
- 45-50 percent – EQT Infrastructure VI fund's investment percentage, reflecting its position in terms of invested capital post-acquisition.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eagle Railcar Services | Target Company | Company | A leading independent provider of railcar repair and maintenance services in North America. |
| EQT | Bidding Company | Company | A global investment organization with significant assets under management, known for strategic acquisitions. |
| JM Texas Companies | Selling Company | Company | Previous owner of Eagle Railcar Services, selling the company to EQT. |
| Marc Walraven | CEO | Person | Founder and CEO of Eagle Railcar Services, continuing partnership with EQT. |
| Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP | Legal Advisor | Company | Legal advisor to EQT for the transaction. |
| Neha Jatar | Managing Director | Person | Managing Director within EQT's Infrastructure Advisory Team, involved in the transaction. |