Janes Capital Partners Guides McStarlite Co. in Strategic Sale to Standex International Corporation
In a significant development within the aerospace and defense industry, Janes Capital Partners has announced its role as the exclusive sell-side advisor to McStarlite Co. in its sale to Standex International Corporation (NYSE: SXI). The transaction marks a pivotal moment for McStarlite Co., which will now become part of Standex’s Engineering Technologies Group business segment. This acquisition not only underscores the growing demand for advanced manufacturing capabilities but also highlights the strategic alignment between two industry leaders.
A Legacy of Excellence: McStarlite Co.’s Contributions to Aerospace Innovation
Founded in 1955 and privately held, McStarlite Co. has long been recognized as a premier sheet metal specialist, renowned for its ability to form some of the largest and most complex aerospace components in the industry. Headquartered in Harbor City, California, the company operates four state-of-the-art facilities where it designs and manufactures cold deep draw and bulge-formed aviation components. These include segmented and single-piece lipskins, nozzles, intricate sheet metal assemblies, and specialized tooling to support production hardware.
McStarlite Co.’s expertise lies in its ability to deliver precision-engineered solutions that meet the rigorous demands of the aerospace sector. Its products are integral to the performance and safety of aircraft, making the company a trusted partner for leading aviation manufacturers. Over the decades, McStarlite Co. has built a reputation for innovation, quality, and reliability, positioning itself as a key player in the global aerospace supply chain.
Standex International Corporation: A Global Leader in Advanced Manufacturing
Standex International Corporation is a diversified global manufacturer with operations spanning multiple industries and continents. The company operates across five core business segments: Electronics, Engraving, Scientific, Engineering Technologies, and Specialty Solutions. With a presence in the United States, Europe, Canada, Japan, Singapore, Mexico, Brazil, Turkey, India, and China, Standex has established itself as a leader in delivering innovative solutions for a wide range of applications.
The Engineering Technologies Group, under the Spincraft brand, plays a critical role in Standex’s portfolio. This division specializes in advanced metal forming technologies, serving industries such as space, aviation, defense, energy, medical, and general industrial markets. By acquiring McStarlite Co., Standex aims to expand its capabilities in aerospace manufacturing while leveraging synergies between the two companies’ complementary product offerings and engineering expertise.
Strategic Alignment and Future Growth Opportunities
For McStarlite Co., the decision to partner with Standex represents a transformative opportunity to accelerate growth and enhance its market position. According to John Basso, Chairman and CEO of McStarlite Co., “Janes Capital Partners was instrumental in finding the ideal acquirer to support our continued growth. Their expertise, industry knowledge, and deep understanding of our Company’s unique capabilities and attributes were invaluable.”
Basso further emphasized the importance of aligning with a partner like Standex, stating, “Janes Capital Partners has secured an outstanding long-term partner with highly complementary product offerings, engineering expertise, and geographical presence.” This partnership is expected to unlock new opportunities for McStarlite Co., enabling it to scale its operations, invest in cutting-edge technologies, and serve an even broader customer base.
The Role of Janes Capital Partners in Facilitating the Transaction
As the exclusive sell-side advisor, Janes Capital Partners played a crucial role in ensuring a seamless and successful transaction process. Known for its deep expertise in the aerospace and defense (A&D) industry, Janes Capital Partners provided strategic guidance throughout every stage of the deal, from identifying potential buyers to negotiating terms and finalizing the agreement.
The firm’s track record speaks volumes about its capabilities. Based in Irvine, California, Janes Capital Partners has completed over 80 successful A&D transactions, representing $6.0 billion in closed transaction value. Its team of seasoned professionals brings unparalleled industry knowledge and a results-driven approach to mergers and acquisitions, making it a trusted advisor for companies seeking to navigate complex transactions.
In addition to its standalone success, Janes Capital Partners benefits from its affiliation with Oaklins International Inc., one of the world’s most experienced mid-market M&A advisors. With 850 professionals operating in 45 countries and 15 dedicated industry teams—including a robust Aerospace & Defense group led by Janes Capital Partners—the firm offers clients access to a vast network of resources and expertise.
Legal Counsel and Transaction Support
In addition to Janes Capital Partners, McStarlite Co. received legal counsel from Procopio, Cory, Hargreaves & Savitch LLP. The firm’s involvement ensured that all aspects of the transaction complied with regulatory requirements and protected McStarlite Co.’s interests throughout the process. This collaborative effort between financial and legal advisors exemplifies the importance of assembling a skilled team to execute high-stakes deals effectively.
Looking Ahead: Synergies and Industry Impact
The acquisition of McStarlite Co. by Standex International Corporation is poised to create significant value for both organizations and their stakeholders. By integrating McStarlite Co.’s advanced sheet metal capabilities into its Engineering Technologies Group, Standex can strengthen its position as a leader in aerospace manufacturing. At the same time, McStarlite Co. stands to benefit from Standex’s extensive resources, global reach, and commitment to innovation.
This transaction also reflects broader trends within the aerospace and defense industry, where consolidation and strategic partnerships are increasingly common. As companies seek to address evolving customer needs, technological advancements, and competitive pressures, deals like this highlight the importance of aligning with partners who share a vision for growth and excellence.
The sale of McStarlite Co. to Standex International Corporation represents a landmark achievement for both companies and serves as a testament to the value of expert advisory services in driving successful outcomes. With Janes Capital Partners at the helm, McStarlite Co. found not only a buyer but a true partner capable of supporting its long-term ambitions. As the aerospace and defense industry continues to evolve, this transaction sets a benchmark for how strategic acquisitions can drive innovation, expand capabilities, and create lasting value.
