Milwaukee-based investment bank Grace Matthews Inc. recently advised BMMC Holdings LLC in an investment transaction related to Compass Chemical International LLC.
One Rock Capital Partners LLC made an undisclosed investment in Smyrna, Ga.-based Compass. BMMC was the seller in the transaction. Compass makes organophosphonates and other chemicals for the industrial water, recreational water, and oil & gas industries.
Bill Bellah, the majority owner of BMMC Holdings, founded Compass in 1999 as an importer of phosphorus acid and related chemistries from Asia. In 2006, Bellah partnered with Danny McCaul, an experienced chemistry industry executive who is now president of Compass.
“We believe One Rock recognized that Compass’ market position, strong management, and industry reputation represents a very strong base for future growth,” Bellah said.
Danny McCaul added: “Grace Matthews worked to find the right investor for Compass that would help drive future growth. After a thorough and exhaustive search, we selected One Rock based on their chemical industry knowledge and cultural fit. We could not be more excited by this outcome and look forward to the opportunities our new partner will be able to provide.”
Kevin Yttre, managing director at Grace Matthews, said: “Compass is well-known for its expertise in organophosphonate chemistries. In partnership with One Rock, we believe Compass will be able to expand its customer base and service offerings.”
One Rock makes controlling investments in companies with the potential for growth and operational improvement. It works collaboratively with company management to develop a comprehensive business plan focused on growing the enterprise and enhancing its profitability to drive long-term value.
“Over the years, Compass has grown from a distribution business to a world-class manufacturer of phosphonate-based scale and corrosion inhibitors for various applications,” said Tony Lee, managing partner at One Rock. “We are looking forward to building on the substantial platform that Compass founder Bill Bellah and president Danny McCaul have established.”
