Bain Capital To Take Majority Stake in FDH Aero

Investment firm Bain Capital Private Equity signed a definitive agreement to take a majority stake in global logistics and parts supplier FDH Aero. Audax Private Equity, FDH’s majority shareholder since 2017, is anticipated to remain a significant investor in the company as well.

Terms of the agreement were not disclosed. The transaction, pending customary regulatory approvals, is anticipated to close in the latter half of the year.

Under the new structure, FDH CEO Ian Walsh and the current management team will remain in place. However, FDH said the new partnership will fuel its next phase of growth with plans for investments in its capabilities, services model, and global reach. This growth is expected to come through strategic acquisitions, but also organically, the company added.

With 1,500 employees, locations in 15 countries, and 650,000 sq ft of inventory space, FDH provides hardware, electrical products, and consumables and expendables to both OEM and aftermarket customers across the aerospace sector. Since the initial Audax investment in 2017, FDH has expanded operations across five continents and completed a dozen acquisitions that expanded its commercial reach and revenue. The latest round of investment with Bain Capital will further accelerate that growth, FDH said.

“This partnership marks an important and planned milestone in our growth plans and reflects the strength of our people, our business, and the opportunities ahead to create value for our customers and stakeholders,” Walsh said. “With Bain Capital’s deep operational and strategic experience, together with the continued support of Audax, we are well-positioned to continue investing for future growth.”

Bain Capital has invested in industrial and aerospace sectors for more than 40 years, with 24 offices on four continents, more than 1,850 employees, and approximately $225 billion in assets under management.

“FDH has built an exceptional platform in aerospace and defense logistics, distinguished by deep customer relationships, a service-first culture, and a level of execution that gives us tremendous confidence in the business,” said Stephen Thomas, a partner at Bain Capital.