Victor Capital Partners (“Victor Capital” or “the Firm”), a leading middle market private equity firm that partners with branded businesses in the specialty consumer, industrial technology, and business services sectors, today announced its partnership with Owl Outdoor (“Owl,” or “the Company”), a leader in the manufacturing and installation of exterior parts and accessories for adventure vans and other overlanding vehicles.
Owl Outdoor, founded in 2019 by CEO John Willenborg, designs, makes, distributes, and installs exterior parts and accessories in the rapidly growing adventure van and overlanding vehicle market. Known for craftsmanship, quality, and performance, Owl offers approximately 400 active products, including its B2 Bike Carrier, Expedition Box, Sherpa Cargo Carrier, Explorer Side Ladder, and Pismo Bumper, among others. The Company operates out of its Mesa, Arizona headquarters, as well as five customer installation and conversion facilities throughout the Western United States.
“For more than a decade, I’ve pursued my passion for developing better performing products in the adventure van and overlanding market, which has been a natural driver in Owl’s growth and ability to foster a dedicated brand community,” said Willenborg. “Victor’s experience supporting innovative, market leading brands — driven by superior products and loyal customers — makes this the perfect partnership for our expansion plan.”
Owl employs more than 60 full-time staff across its product development lines. CEO John Willenborg and COO Jeff Bader will continue to lead the Company and serve on Owl’s Board.
“John and the Owl team have quickly established a reputation for innovation, quality, safety, customer service, and adventure – all key elements of building an authentic brand,” said Dave Affinito, Partner at Victor Capital. “Victor seeks investments with a strong brand identity, expanding product applications, and passionate, dedicated users – Owl Outdoor exceeds in all of these categories with a leadership team committed to the Company’s long-term success.”
As part of the Firm’s investment in Owl, Victor partnered with New Value Capital. Adam Raper, Managing Partner of New Value Capital, will also join Owl Outdoor’s Board alongside Victor. Blank Rome LLP served as legal advisor to Victor Capital. Bell Lap Advisors’ Russell Cree served as financial advisor to Owl Outdoor and Buchalter served as legal advisor to the Company.
About Victor Capital Partners
Victor Capital Partners is a leading middle market private equity firm investing in specialty consumer, industrial technology, and business services companies. We focus on resilient industries and mission-driven branded businesses with outsized growth potential. Our name stands for victory because we help build companies that are well-positioned to win for their people, customers, and communities. For more information, visit www.victorcapitalpartners.com.
About Owl Outdoors
Owl Outdoors is a designer, manufacturer, distributor, installer, and thought leader in the rapidly growing overlanding and adventure van industry. Founded in 2019, Owl has gone from a garage to the leading brand in industry by focusing on innovative design, quality products, customer service, and educational content. The Company sells through three major channels, including retail, wholesale, and offroad installation centers. For more information, visit www.owlvans.com.