Approach

We’re not here to fix what isn’t broken. We’re here to help you write the next chapter of growth.

Why Partner with Ashland

With an experienced team offering:

Speed & Certainty

We close with commitment. Our detailed LOI sets clear terms, and our due diligence is efficient and transparent — providing certainty you’ll close with a committed buyer.

Flexible Structure

Full buyout, recapitalization, or phased transition — we tailor the deal to your personal and financial goals. Seller rollover is encouraged to align our interests.

Transparency & Trust

No re-trading, no surprises. We operate with the highest level of professionalism, privacy, and discretion throughout the entire process.

Operational Support

Meaningful support with acquisitions, geographic expansion, capital allocation, and management team development. We bring operating experience, not just financial engineering.

“Ashland has been more than an investor, they’ve been a true partner. They provide the strategic perspective and patient capital needed to grow the right way, while empowering management to lead and execute. Their long-term approach and commitment to operational excellence have strengthened our business and positioned Mayco for sustained success.”

Todd Plage

CEO, Mayco Industries

Manufacturing

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

No. While we typically acquire a majority position, we encourage owners to retain equity and continue participating in the upside. We tailor deal structures to fit your personal and financial goals — whether that’s full retirement, a phased transition, or continued involvement post-sale.

We provide strategic guidance, growth capital for equipment and hiring, acquisition financing, and access to our network of industry executives. We bring real-world operating experience — not just financial engineering. Our team rolls up their sleeves to support scaling with purpose and discipline.

We prioritize continuity. We keep key employees, reward loyal teams, and preserve the trust your people have in your leadership. We are builders, not cutters — our track record reflects a commitment to growing organizations, not downsizing them.

We conduct due diligence efficiently and transparently. We provide a detailed letter of intent that sets clear terms and avoid the pitfalls that lead to delays and disagreements. Our focus is to confirm the data so we can close and start a positive partnership with you and your management team.

Our investments are not bound by predefined exit timelines. We use long-dated, patient capital — several of our portfolio companies have been with us since 2006. We invest our own capital alongside our partners, and our team’s compensation is tied to performance of the companies after the transaction, not deal closing.

Lower middle market industrial and manufacturing businesses — the backbone of the American economy. Advanced manufacturing, engineered components, industrial services, specialty distribution, metals, concrete, packaging, and niche B2B solutions.

Let’s Work Together

Whether you’re a business owner, investment banker, or advisor — we’d welcome a confidential conversation.

Tom Fitzgerald

Managing Director

tfitzgerald@ashlandcap.com

James Lynch

Senior Managing Director

jclynch@ashlandcap.com

Cole White

Associate

cwhite@ashlandcap.com