Mechanix Wear Expands with Acquisition of Kinco
Deal News | Jun 23, 2025 | Gryphon Investors
Mechanix Wear, a leading work glove manufacturer and a portfolio company of Gryphon Investors, has acquired Kinco, a family-owned glove maker with a 50-year history. The acquisition aims to broaden Mechanix Wear's product lineup and expand its market reach, particularly into farm, outdoor, and industrial sectors. The deal also includes Welch, Kinco's suspender business. Kinco’s current owner, Travis Kindler, will continue as President and retain a minority stake. The merger marks Mechanix Wear’s second add-on acquisition following the purchase of Chicago Protective Apparel. Gryphon Investors and its associated partners played a pivotal role in facilitating this strategic expansion.
Sectors
- Consumer Goods
- Private Equity
- Manufacturing
Geography
- United States – The companies involved, such as Mechanix Wear and Gryphon Investors, are based in the United States, highlighting its relevance.
Industry
- Consumer Goods – The article discusses companies involved in manufacturing and retailing work gloves and apparel, which are part of consumer goods.
- Private Equity – The acquisition of Kinco by Mechanix Wear, facilitated by Gryphon Investors, involves strategies common in private equity and investment sectors.
- Manufacturing – Both Mechanix Wear and Kinco are involved in the manufacturing of protective gloves and apparel.
Financials
- Not disclosed – The terms of the acquisition deal between Mechanix Wear and Kinco.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechanix Wear | Acquirer | Company | A designer and manufacturer of high-performance work gloves. |
| Kinco | Target | Company | A family-owned manufacturer of high-quality gloves with a focus on ski and snowboard industries. |
| Gryphon Investors | Private Equity Firm | Company | A middle-market private investment firm managing Mechanix Wear as part of its portfolio. |
| Travis Kindler | President of Kinco | Person | Son of the founders and current owner of Kinco, retaining a minority stake post-acquisition. |
| EC M&A | Financial Advisor to Gryphon | Company | Acted as financial advisor for the acquisition. |
| Kirkland & Ellis | Legal Advisor to Gryphon | Company | Provided legal advisory services for the transaction. |
| Adaptive Capital Partners | Financial Advisor to Kinco | Company | Acted as financial advisor for Kinco in the acquisition. |
| Petersen + Landis | Legal Advisor to Kinco | Company | Provided legal advisory services for Kinco. |