AUA Private Equity Partners

Private equity can play a pivotal role in the evolution and growth of family-owned businesses, as it allows for experienced players in the space to offer a blend of financial support, operational expertise and guidance to companies earlier in their history.

AUA Private Equity Partners is taking center stage as the go-to choice for family-owned businesses and multicultural enterprises in need of financial strength and strategic direction. The company is renowned for guiding businesses toward increased value creation, whether those businesses face generational shifts or growth spurts requiring additional capital and expertise.

AUA is a leading operationally focused investment firm specializing in the acquisition and growth of consumer products and consumer services companies in the lower-middle market. The company primarily partners with enterprises in the packaged goods, food and beverage and pet industries, focusing on creating significant ROI while making a positive impact on society.

“Our broad operational and investment experience helps multicultural businesses stimulate growth and innovation in the advanced market economies,” says Andy Unanue, managing partner. “Our focus lies in helping them reach previously unimaginable heights while keeping their legacy intact.”

The face of AUA Private Equity Partners is its leadership team led by Unanue, Steven Flyer, David Benyaminy and Kyce Chihi. Their decades of industry experience in handling various operations and investments, including significant tenures at major financial institutions, law firms, and some of America’s most well-known family-owned businesses, have equipped them with the expertise necessary to advise family run businesses through various transitional phases.

AUA’s partnership-first approach is a significant differentiator. The company commits nearly 20 percent of its general partner capital to funds, signaling a strong alignment of interest to its portfolio of companies. Clients are also encouraged to reinvest up to 45 percent of their equity into the business, ensuring they buy into the potential for growth and returns. A distinct advantage of partnering with AUA is their commitment to going the extra mile to enhance the performance of portfolio companies. AUA makes this happen by leveraging an extensive network of sales, marketing and distribution with each partner company.

AUA Private Equity Partners are also experts in boosting operational efficiency through improved logistics and manufacturing practices, including adopting advanced manufacturing technologies that reduce waste and improve. AUA also prioritizes the integration of modern communication, which facilitates better oversight and coordination across different locations. Each of these tactics helps to augment the capabilities of partner companies’ workforces, allowing for streamlined operations and improved overall performance.

When a family-owned business faced generational transition and significant capital requirements, AUA’s partnership success enabled it to move forward thoughtfully at a difficult crossroads. The older generation of ownership struggled with the decision to move to a larger manufacturing facility, as they were hesitant to reinvest the substantial funds needed for expansion. This hesitancy threatened the business’ growth and sustainability, as the existing plant could no longer accommodate the increasing demand. They also lacked a formalized management structure and needed strategic guidance to successfully navigate this critical phase.

AUA stepped in to address the challenges, acquiring a 55 percent stake in the business while ensuring the family retained a substantial 45 percent ownership. AUA’s team helped their client move to a new, larger facility, doubling their production capacity. A board of directors was introduced, and efficient strategies were adopted to ensure organizational stability.

After four years, both the original ownership group and AUA benefited from a sale that valued the company at five times its value prior to the partnership with AUA. The founders’ son remained as the CEO throughout this period, ensuring continuity and preserving the family’s legacy.

Successful partnerships like this are emblematic of AUA Private Equity Partners’ financial acumen and unwavering commitment to maintaining the legacy and culture of the family businesses undergoing a transition or a management buyout.

As more Baby Boomer entrepreneurs retire from their family-owned businesses and look for ways to pass the torch, many long-standing private companies must confront a major shift in their ownership structure and consider responsible and sustainable exit strategies. AUA Private Equity Partners’ distinct approach, combined with an impressive track record of success, makes the company a preferred partner for all businesses seeking a successful transition and growth.