FORTNA®, a global leader in automation and engineering services for distribution, has announced a significant investment from Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. (“THL”). This recapitalization agreement, revealed on March 27, 2019, marks a pivotal moment for FORTNA as it seeks to leverage THL’s expertise to propel its growth trajectory in the rapidly evolving landscape of distribution and logistics. While the specific financial terms remain undisclosed, this partnership signals a strong vote of confidence in FORTNA’s vision and capabilities.
Thomas H. Lee Partners (THL) Logo: Investment Firm Driving Growth for FORTNA
Founded in 1946, FORTNA has established itself as a premier provider of distribution solutions, encompassing strategy, design, implementation, and advanced software systems. The company empowers some of the world’s most recognized brands to optimize their distribution networks, achieving enhanced operational efficiency, increased throughput, and superior service levels. With a widespread global presence spanning North America, Europe, Latin America, and South Africa, FORTNA boasts a client roster exceeding 200 companies worldwide.
The strategic alliance with Thomas H. Lee Partners comes at a crucial juncture, fueled by the relentless expansion of e-commerce and the escalating demand for sophisticated warehouse automation infrastructure. FORTNA recognized the need for a robust strategic and financial ally to capitalize on substantial growth opportunities, including potential mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and continued geographic expansion. Thomas H. Lee Partners, with its deep industry knowledge and extensive resources, emerged as the ideal partner to bolster FORTNA’s capabilities and market offerings. THL is expected to contribute significant operational and financial resources, acting as a catalyst to accelerate FORTNA’s ambitious growth strategy.
John A. White III, President and CEO of FORTNA, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are excited to partner with THL, whose operating resources, extensive automation expertise and relationships will accelerate our next chapter of growth. This investment will create new opportunities for our associates and clients alike as FORTNA provides solutions that deliver exceptional flexibility, agility and responsiveness to enable high-volume distribution centers.” He further emphasized the shared mission, “We look forward to working with THL as we continue executing on our mission to be the world leader in partnering with our clients to optimize their complex distribution operations.”
Echoing this sentiment, Jim Carlisle, Managing Director at Thomas H. Lee Partners, remarked, “We are thrilled about the opportunity to work with the talented FORTNA team. FORTNA has earned an impressive reputation as a leading provider of automation solutions to the warehouse and distribution end market, which is driven by its continued focus on technology innovation, leading engineering talent, and reliable, on-time delivery of advanced automation equipment and software to its clients. We are excited to invest in this outstanding organization and look forward to supporting FORTNA’s continued growth.”
The financial advisory for FORTNA in this transaction was provided by Citi, with legal counsel from Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP. Thomas H. Lee Partners received legal counsel from Kirkland & Ellis LLP and accounting advisory services from PricewaterhouseCoopers.
About FORTNA Inc.
FORTNA has a rich history spanning over 70 years, dedicated to transforming the distribution operations of top global brands into a source of competitive advantage. FORTNA empowers clients to consistently deliver on their customer promises – fast, accurate, and cost-effective fulfillment across all channels and touchpoints. Their expertise encompasses distribution strategy, operations, material handling automation, supply chain systems, and warehouse execution software. For deeper insights, please visit www.fortna.com.
About Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P.
Thomas H. Lee Partners, L.P. (“THL”), a premier private equity firm, focuses on investing in high-growth North American companies. With a sector-centric approach, THL targets investments across Business & Financial Services, Consumer & Retail, Healthcare, and Media, Information Services & Technology. Since its inception in 1974, Thomas H. Lee Partners has raised over $25 billion in equity capital, invested in over 140 companies, and executed more than 360 add-on acquisitions, representing a total enterprise value exceeding $200 billion at acquisition. THL leverages its dedicated sector and operating teams to provide deep domain expertise and resources, aiming to build exceptional companies by accelerating growth, enhancing operations, and driving sustainable long-term value in close collaboration with management teams.
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