Leveraging its vast investor contact network, The Open Approach (TOA) facilitated the considerations, negotiations, and ensuing acquisition of Fort Dearborn Company by Genstar Capital, LP—the total process taking just three months. A tailor-made matchup, the expedited transaction was largely a result of The Open Approach's expertise in identifying M&A partnerships that draw favorable results for both buyer and seller.

"The Open Approach made the process seamless and beneficial to all parties. We would recommend them to any enterprise seeking ideal investments to fuel growth."

—Michael Anderson, CEO
Dearborn Company

The acquisition of the $190 million label and packaging printer gives Genstar a profitable platform company to enter the lucrative marketspace and pursue aggressive growth through additional development and bolt-ons. The investment provides Fort Dearborn funding to capitalize on such new opportunities, while delivering higher returns to company shareholders and a more expansive product/service offering to its nationwide customers.

"We are extremely pleased with the potential this deal provides," commented Mike Anderson, Chief Executive Officer of Fort Dearborn Company. "The Open Approach made the process seamless and beneficial to all parties. We would recommend them to any enterprise seeking ideal investments to fuel growth."

"The Fort Dearborn acquisition provides a lucrative base for a strong, nationwide buildout and significant shareholder gains," added Richard Hoskins of Genstar Capital. "We will definitely consider opportunities from The Open Approach in the future."

As part of the deal, Fort Dearborn will continue to operate under the direction of its current management team. Fort Dearborn is a recognized leader in printed label solutions for the food and beverage, personal care, and household products markets. The company is headquartered in Elk Grove Village, IL, with five additional printing plants across the U.S.

The Open Approach is a boutique investment banking/consulting firm focusing exclusively on the graphic arts industry. Comprised of print industry veterans, The Open Approach partners each deliver more than 30 years' experience spearheading the success of large national print conglomerates, regional solutions providers, family-owned businesses, and other graphic arts enterprises. Services include mergers and acquisitions, corporate positioning, strategic direction, value enhancement, exit strategies, alliance opportunities, and sales and marketing assistance. The Open Approach has been named PIA/GATF's exclusive member-recommended firm for M&A activities. It is based in Westmont, Illinois.

For more information, please email info@theopenapproach.net or call 630.323.9700.