20.11.2012

Private Equity firm acquires A.W. Leil

A newly established Canadian private equity firm, SeaFort Capital has acquired Canadian crane rental company A.W. Leil Holdings of Thornburn, Nova Scotia, from its founding family.

No financial details of the deal have been released in what is SeaForts first transaction.

The acquisition was completed on Monday in partnership with Leil’s two senior managers, Larry MacDonald and Robert Fraser who will hold a minority stake in the business.

Founded in 1958 AW Leil operates a fleet of over 50 cranes, topped by a 600 tonne Terex crawler crane and covers Eastern Canada and Quebec from five locations operating under the names A.W. Leil, Sagadore Cranes and Cape Breton Cranes with 60 employees.
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A.W. Leil's flagship crawler crane

Rob Normandeau, president of SeaFort said: "We are excited to invest in an established Nova Scotia business alongside experienced and dedicated operating partners. A.W. Leil boasts a committed group of skilled employees and a modern fleet of cranes. We intend to continue the legacy that Allison Leil Sr. and his family have established through decades of reliable performance."

Larry MacDonald, general manager added: "Robert Fraser and I are very pleased to partner with SeaFort. We will continue to run the business out of our Pictou County head office, but will now have access to advice and assistance from SeaFort on matters related to A.W. Leil's strategic direction and future growth. We share a strong commitment to safety and a belief in excellent customer service. This transaction will provide a seamless transition to a new ownership structure, which is great news for employees and for customers."

Allison Leil Sr. added "Over the last 54 years, I have taken great pride in my business, developing a personal connection to each employee and a deep familiarity with every piece of equipment. I am pleased to see SeaFort partner with Larry and Robert to acquire the company. I am confident that they will treat our people fairly and uphold our values as they work to grow and develop the business."