Sentinel Capital Partners, a private equity firm that invests in promising midmarket companies, today announced a new partnership with RefrigiWear, a leading provider of industrial workwear for subzero environments. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
RefrigiWear makes cold temperature protective industrial workwear for indoor and outdoor use in sub-freezing temperatures and inclement weather environments. RefrigiWear’s products include outerwear, coveralls, bibs, pants, and protective handwear and footwear that are designed to keep users warm, safe, and productive. RefrigiWear has deep, long-standing relationships with its customers in the food manufacturing, food distribution, and construction and other outdoor end markets. Over the past several years, RefrigiWear has rapidly grown its e-commerce business to provide its quality products directly to end consumers. RefrigiWear also provides services such as embroidery and personalization, emblems, logos, patches, custom alterations, repairs and laundry services, which further entrenches it with its customers. Founded in 1954, RefrigiWear will continue to be managed by members of the founding families that have run the business since its inception.
“RefrigiWear is the premium trusted brand in cold environment workwear with unparalleled customer loyalty, exceptional service, and a record of innovation,” said Sentinel partner John Van Sickle. “We are excited about the opportunity to partner with RefrigiWear’s outstanding management team. We see a bright future for RefrigiWear and look forward to helping RefrigiWear’s talented management team achieve their ambitious goals.”
Dean Breakstone, co-CEO, said “RefrigiWear will continue to execute on the vision and plan that my family set for the company more than 65 years ago—to provide quality, reliable workwear for jobs performed in extremely cold conditions.” Ryan Silberman, co-CEO, added, “From the first conversation, it was clear that a partnership with Sentinel will enable RefrigiWear to accelerate its rapid growth record and open up broader-based employee ownership of our family-owned business. We are excited to join forces with Sentinel for our next phase of growth.”
Sentinel has significant experience partnering with companies in niche markets filling specialized needs for individuals. Investments include Careismatic Brands (medical scrubs and related uniforms), GSM Outdoors (hunting and sport shooting products), Spinrite (craft yarn products), and Cabi (specialized women’s apparel).
