Highlander Partners Announces Acquisition of McIntosh Group, Leader in Premium Consumer Audio Technology

McIntosh Group to serve as anchor for new Highlander luxury technology platform

DALLAS, June 15, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Highlander Partners, LP (“Highlander”), a leading private investment firm, today announced the acquisition of McIntosh Group, through a newly formed holding company (” the Group” or “the Company”). McIntosh Group has been a leader and innovator in the high-end audio category for decades and today manufactures and distributes the world’s finest amplifiers, speakers, turntables and other audio products under several renowned brands. The company is driven by its dedication to quality performance, sophisticated technology, refined design and handcrafted craftsmanship. These principles have resulted in brands known for their unparalleled design, product quality and customer experiences.

The band is anchored by legendary brand McIntosh. Since 1949, McIntosh amplifiers have been designed and handcrafted in Binghamton, NY and have enjoyed an incredible history, having powered events from presidential inaugurations to Woodstock ’69. McIntosh amps are world renowned both for their iconic design – classic tubes, knobs and the beloved blue faceplate – as well as for their unparalleled and powerful audio quality.

The group also includes Sonus Faber, a luxury designer and manufacturer of high-end loudspeakers. Based in Vicenza, Italy, the brand’s heritage revolves around the know-how of its artisans, which leads to the creation of the most elegant audio products in the world. Sonus Faber offers a range of products from masterfully designed loudspeakers to custom-installed solutions and state-of-the-art wireless streaming loudspeakers. Like McIntosh, Sonus Faber combines design and innovation to create superior technology products that are also works of art, revered by audiophiles and design-conscious consumers.

In addition, McIntosh Group provides fully integrated distribution services across North Americacentral and South Americathe UK, and Benelux for their own brands as well as several third-party brands, including Pro-Ject (high-end turntables), Rotel (high-end amplifiers and electronics) and Bassocontinuo (Italian-made audio racks). The group also has a thriving car entertainment business, providing audio technology for select high-end models including the Grand Wagoneer and Jeep Grand Cherokee L under the McIntosh brand and the Maserati Grecale and MC20 under Sonus Faber.

Jeff L. HullChairman and CEO of Highlander Partners said, “We have evolved our investment strategy around consumer-driven brands and luxury goods for several years. The opportunity to acquire brands as strong as those of the McIntosh group does not arise often and we are very enthusiastic. be part of the next chapter of society. We believe there is a unique opportunity to acquire other mainstream luxury technology brands and intend to remain active in the category.

Jeff Pogi and Charles Randallco-CEO of the McIntosh Group, said, “We are delighted to continue our growth trajectory alongside the Highlander team. Across all brands and product categories, we continue to see remarkable results and excess opportunity; we believe Highlander’s financial approach and operational expertise can help capture these prospects.”

Ben Slatepartner at Highlander, added, “The McIntosh Group sits at the intersection of several strong trends that we look forward to participating in. The residential environment is changing rapidly, with technology becoming an integral component of the home. Additionally, consumers of all demographics The spectrum demands high-fidelity sound more than ever, and premium brands such as McIntosh and Sonus Faber are increasingly seen as functional works of art.”

Lincoln International LLC acted as financial advisor and Shearman & Sterling LLP acted as legal advisor to the McIntosh Group. Highlander Partners was represented by Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP as legal counsel.

About McIntosh Group

McIntosh Group is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of premium home audio equipment worldwide. The company offers a wide range of premium audio products across multiple brands, catering to a very loyal base of audio enthusiasts and music lovers. Common to all McIntosh Group brands is the goal of bringing sound to life through quality products that are built to perform. McIntosh Group is committed to ensuring the long-term development of each of its brands while respecting their identity, their heritage and their know-how. For more information, visit www.mcintoshgroup.com.

About Highlander Partners

Highlander Partners, LP is a dallasprivate investment company with over $2 billion of its own capital. The firm focuses on making investments in companies in targeted industries in which the company’s executives have significant operating and investing experience. Highlander Partners uses a buy-and-build investment approach, creating value by helping companies grow both organically and through acquisitions. For more information, visit www.highlander-partners.com.

SOURCE Highlander Partners, LP

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