February 22, 2016

Highlander Partners announced it has acquired London-based custom specialty ingredients supplier, Fuerst Day Lawson Holdings Limited (FDL) in partnership with chief executive officer, Mac Mardi, for an undisclosed amount.

Launched in 1884 as a niche commodity trader, and with operations in England, the U.S., India, and China, FDL is a multinational supplier of customized ingredients to the food, beverage, fragrance, and chemical industries. FDL’s offerings include beverage syrups, flavorings, colors, honey, juices and juice blends, seeds and grains, sweeteners, and sweetener systems, amino acids, aroma chemicals, energy and fortification solutions, and preservatives and acidulants. FDL is also a leading trader in niche commodities including mint oils, menthol, and castor oil.

Upon the close of the deal, FDL will continue to function under its current structure, retaining its current management team which will be led by CEO, Mac Mardi, who will also serve as the co-chairman of FDL’s board of directors alongside Highlander Partners president, Mike Nicolais.

"We are excited to be working with Highlander Partners, which has a strong track record of building long-term value for its portfolio companies, with deep, relevant experience in the food ingredient space," said Mardi in a recent press release. “With Highlander's financial, strategic and operational support, we are excited to expand upon our leading market position with a partner who shares in our strategic vision."

Based in Dallas, Texas, Highlander Partners is a middle market private investment firm overseeing more than $1 billion in assets under management. Highlander pursues a “buy and build” approach to its investments, which focus on business with significant operational and investment experience in the food and beverage, specialty chemical, and consumer product sectors, among others.

Commenting on the deal and Highlander’s future plans for FDL, Mr. Nicolais states, "FDL's focus on innovation, service and customized solutions have formed a loyal and growing customer base. We are excited to partner with such an experienced and proven management team to continue growing and developing innovative solutions for the Company's customers. In addition, similar to our other portfolio companies, we intend to supplement organic growth with strategic acquisitions that build on and expand FDL's existing business and product offerings."