Owen Expands with Acquisition of J&R Equipment
Deal News | Mar 12, 2025 | Wynnchurch Capital
Wynnchurch Capital's portfolio company, Owen, has acquired J&R Equipment, a leading distributor of environmental and refuse equipment in Oklahoma and Arkansas. This strategic acquisition aims to broaden Owen's footprint and service offerings in infrastructure and environmental solutions. John Gerber, CEO of Owen, highlighted the alignment of values and market leadership of J&R Equipment as key benefits. Wynnchurch's Managing Director, Brian Riordan, emphasized the opportunity for growth and expansion through this partnership. The legal aspects of the acquisition were advised by Foley & Lardner LLP. Owen, based in Vancouver, Washington, has been a significant provider in the sector since 1958, while Wynnchurch Capital is a renowned middle-market private equity firm based in Illinois, with a history of facilitating substantial growth in partner companies.
Sectors
- Private Equity
- Environmental Equipment
- Infrastructure
Geography
- United States – Both Owen and J&R Equipment operate primarily within the United States, focusing on municipal, utility, and commercial customers.
- Canada – Wynnchurch Capital has operations including an affiliate office in Canada, thus represents geographical interests in both the US and Canada.
Industry
- Private Equity – Involves Wynnchurch Capital, a private equity firm, in the acquisition investment of J&R Equipment.
- Environmental Equipment – J&R Equipment is a distributor of environmental and refuse equipment, central to Owen's acquisition strategy.
- Infrastructure – Owen and J&R Equipment cater to municipal and utility sectors, providing infrastructure development and maintenance solutions.
Financials
- $9.2 billion – Wynnchurch Capital's regulatory assets under management.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Owen Companies | Acquirer | Company | A leading provider of critical infrastructure and environmental equipment. |
| J&R Equipment, LLC | Target Company | Company | A distributor of environmental and refuse equipment in Oklahoma and Arkansas. |
| Wynnchurch Capital | Private Equity Firm | Company | Private equity firm backing Owen in their strategic growth endeavors. |
| Foley & Lardner LLP | Legal Advisor | Company | Provided legal advice to Owen and Wynnchurch during the acquisition process. |
| John Gerber | CEO | Person | CEO of Owen Companies, overseeing the strategic acquisition. |
| Brian Riordan | Managing Director | Person | Managing Director at Wynnchurch Capital, involved in facilitating the acquisition. |