Published by Wanda Rich
Posted on February 17, 2025
In a demonstration of its diverse investment strategy, H.I.G. Capital has executed two significant transactions in early February 2025, highlighting the Miami-based firm's ability to generate returns across different sectors and geographies. The global alternative investment firm, which manages $67 billion in equity capital, completed the sale of healthcare provider Soleo Health while simultaneously expanding its European manufacturing presence through an investment in Germany's HELLER Group.
The successful exit of Soleo Health, announced on February 3rd, sees the specialty pharmacy and infusion services provider transition to new ownership under Court Square Capital and WindRose Health Investors. The sale marks the culmination of a strategic growth period during which Soleo significantly expanded its national footprint and service capabilities.
Under H.I.G.'s ownership, Soleo Health developed into a comprehensive healthcare provider operating 26 pharmacies and more than 30 ambulatory infusion suites nationwide. The company's expansion included establishing pharmacy licenses across all 50 states, enabling it to serve patients with complex, rare, and ultra-rare medical conditions throughout the country.
"H.I.G. has been an exceptional partner to Soleo and instrumental in helping us build the Company into the market leader we are today. H.I.G. supported several significant investments in talent and infrastructure, strengthening our ability to reach more patients and provide exceptional care across our network," said Drew Walk, President and Chief Executive Officer at Soleo Health.
Scott Zhu, Managing Director at H.I.G., noted the company's transformation from a regional provider to a national leader in specialty care, highlighting the successful execution of their investment thesis.
Following the Soleo Health exit, H.I.G. announced on February 4th its entry into the German manufacturing sector through a strategic investment in the HELLER Group, a deal that remains subject to antitrust approval. The investment represents a significant move in the European market and demonstrates H.I.G.'s commitment to supporting traditional industrial companies through digital transformation.
HELLER, a 130-year-old family business headquartered in Nürtingen, Germany, has evolved into a global leader in CNC machine tools and manufacturing systems. With over 2,600 employees across five production facilities spanning Europe, Asia, and the Americas, HELLER serves diverse industries including engineering, aerospace, energy, defense, and commercial vehicles.
The deal structure maintains HELLER's family business heritage while providing new growth opportunities. The fourth generation of the Heller family will retain significant ownership, partnering with H.I.G. to support a transformation program initiated by CEO Dr. Thorsten Schmidt.
"This partnership lays a strong foundation for sustainable investments in HELLER's future, and we are confident that HELLER will successfully execute on its strategic initiatives and emerge stronger than ever," stated Nicole Pfleiderer and Marc Heller, representing the fourth generation of the Heller family.
Dr. Schmidt emphasized the company's focus on strengthening its position as a market-leading innovator, with plans to expand into new industries and broaden its customer base. Christian Kraul-von Renner, Managing Director at H.I.G., expressed confidence in HELLER's future, citing the company's engineering excellence and skilled workforce as key factors in the investment decision.
These February transactions reflect H.I.G.'s broader investment philosophy of providing flexible capital solutions to middle-market companies while maintaining an operationally focused approach. The firm's global reach, evidenced by its presence in 19 offices across North America, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, and Asia, enables it to identify and execute diverse investment opportunities.
Since its establishment in 1993, H.I.G. has built an impressive track record, investing in and managing more than 400 companies worldwide. The firm's current portfolio encompasses over 100 companies, collectively generating sales exceeding $53 billion, demonstrating its ability to create value across various sectors and market cycles.
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