FourBridges Capital Advisors, a lower middle-market investment banking firm that helps business owners sell their companies, refinance debt and access growth capital, announced today Metro Plumbing, Heating & Air has been acquired by USA Hometown Experts, a portfolio company of Atlanta-based MSouth Equity Partners. FourBridges acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Metro's shareholders and structured and negotiated the transaction on their behalf.
Officials said, "Founded in 1989 by Mark Hardin, Metro Plumbing, Heating & Air has grown into one of the largest and most trusted residential service providers in the Chattanooga region, offering HVAC, plumbing, septic and drain services.
Over the years, the Company has built a reputation for quality workmanship, dependable service and strong community values. Today, Metro is led by CEO Drew Hardin, who will continue in his leadership role going forward."
"We couldn't have completed a transaction on these terms without the help of FourBridges," said Mr. Hardin. “Not only did FourBridges deliver both a valuation and overall deal that exceeded our expectations, they were able to meet each of our family member’s distinct goals for the sale.”
“We were pleased with the valuation levels we were able to generate from high quality buyers that came to the table,” said FourBridges Vice President Andrew Allred. “It’s a testament to the Hardins’ decades of hard work, big vision for excellence in the trades, and insistence on being a great place for Chattanooga folks to work and grow.”
Officials said, "Led by CEO Bill Sublette, USA Hometown Experts is partnering with exceptional local operators to build a network of market-leading home services brands across the Southeast. With the backing of MSouth Equity Partners, USA provides resources and operational support to help its partner companies grow while preserving their unique culture and customer-first approach."
“We are proud of what our family and team have built at Metro over the last 35 years,” said Mr. Hardin. “In USA Hometown Experts, we found a partner that shares our values, respects our legacy, and brings resources that will allow us to expand our services and continue to deliver extraordinary experiences to our customers and employees.”
“It’s a great match,” added Mr. Allred. “USA Hometown Experts is an ideal partner to help Metro capitalize on its strong market position and operational excellence, while keeping leadership, people, and culture intact.”
In addition to Mr. Allred, the FourBridges deal team included Andy Stockett, John Kirkland and Wes Young. Legal counsel for Metro was provided by David Spiller, Merrill Nelson and Livia Campos of Miller & Martin PLLC. Tax and accounting support was provided by Chad Goodman of HHM CPAs. Personal financial advisory was led by the Pinnacle Financial Partners team of Chris Ramey and Todd Tindall.