Bestop, Inc., a portfolio company of Kinderhook Industries, LLC, announced today the acquisition of Bull Accessories, LLC, the leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of patented, BullRing branded, tie down anchors and ratchet straps for light-duty pickup trucks. BullRing represents the fifth add-on acquisition for Bestop and Kinderhook’s 68th automotive-related transaction. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Based in Louisville, CO, Bestop is the world’s largest manufacturer of soft tops and fabric accessories for Jeep and UTV vehicles, the sole supplier of factory soft tops on all Jeep Wranglers since 1986 and a major supplier of tonneaus, lock boxes, lighting and fabric caps to the pickup truck market. Bestop’s three other product acquisitions include Baja Designs (2016), Tuffy Security Products (2016) and PRP Seats (2018).
Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Boerne, TX, BullRing provides the best-selling and strongest tie-down anchor to the light-duty pickup truck market. BullRing’s installations are unique in that they require no drilling to anchor to the truck. Upon acquisition, BullRing’s operations will be overseen by PRP Seat’s CEO, Aaron Wedeking. PRP Seats is the manufacturer of SpeedStrap, the innovative weavable recovery straps, plus premium tie-downs and accessories for Jeeps, trucks and UTV’s.
“BullRing is an incredible niche accessory business that will fit perfectly into Bestop’s premium accessories portfolio,” says Bestop CEO John Larson. “The product and the company carry an impeccable reputation, and we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to help build the brand.”
Tom Tuttle, Managing Director of Kinderhook Industries, stated, “John and his team have done a tremendous job integrating and growing Bestop’s previous product acquisitions. We are excited about adding another premium brand to Bestop’s existing suite of products.”
Monroe Moxness Berg PA served as legal counsel to Bestop.
About Kinderhook Industries:
Kinderhook Industries, LLC is a private investment firm that manages over $2.0 billion of committed capital. We have made in excess of 200 investments and follow-on acquisitions since inception. Kinderhook’s investment philosophy is predicated on matching unique, growth-oriented investment opportunities with exceptional financial expertise and our proprietary network of operating partners. Our focus is on middle market businesses with defensible niche market positioning in the healthcare services, environmental / business services and automotive / light manufacturing sectors. We have a track record of successfully and consistently building industry leaders.
For more information, please visit: www.kinderhook.com
About Bestop:
Bestop is the world’s largest manufacturer of soft tops and fabric accessories for Jeep vehicles and sole supplier of factory soft tops on all Jeep Wranglers since 1986. Winner of numerous design and innovation awards from Chrysler/Jeep, Bestop offers the finest replacement soft tops for Jeep, plus a host of related fabric accessories and enthusiast-oriented products for both on and off-road use. The company’s products have an outstanding reputation in the marketplace for their superior design, innovative solutions and high quality that have inspired a loyal following among both Jeep enthusiasts and casual drivers.
For more information, please visit: www.bestop.com
About BullRing:
Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Boerne, TX, BullRing provides the best-selling and strongest tie-down anchor to the light-duty pickup truck market. BullRing’s installations are unique in that they require no drilling to anchor to the truck.
For more information, please visit: www.bullringusa.com
