Afinitas Acquires RJ Watson, Inc.

Afinitas Acquires Concrete Equipment Assets of Elk River Machine Company (ERMC)

October 25, 2024

Manufacturing

Afinitas has acquired the concrete machinery and forming systems assets and related intellectual property of Elk River Machine Company (ERMC) from ERMC parent Hutchinson Manufacturing, LLC. The deal brings ERMC product lines (wire mesh benders, rollers, cage expanders, wetcast/drycast forms and retaining wall systems) and design talent into the Afinitas platform to expand its concrete equipment and forming systems offering.

Afinitas Acquires Haala Industries

November 21, 2022

Manufacturing

Afinitas has acquired Haala Industries, a Sleepy Eye, Minnesota-based manufacturer of steel-fabricated products used in precast concrete and drainage applications. The deal expands Afinitas' concrete accessories portfolio and manufacturing capabilities as part of its strategy to build a leading platform of concrete technologies.

Arora Engineers Acquires J.A. Watts (JWI)

January 20, 2026

Engineering Services

Arora Engineers, a portfolio company of Jacmel Partners, has acquired J.A. Watts, LLC (JWI), a Chicago-based construction, program and project management firm. The add-on strengthens Arora's capabilities in program and construction management—particularly in aviation and transportation—enabling integrated services across planning, design and construction execution.

Ryan Specialty Acquires J.M. Wilson

July 1, 2025

Insurance

Ryan Specialty (NYSE: RYAN) has completed the acquisition of J.M. Wilson Corporation, integrating JM Wilson's binding authority and surplus lines operations into RT Binding Authority. The acquisition expands Ryan Specialty’s specialty insurance distribution and underwriting capabilities, particularly across commercial transportation, marine, personal lines and surety markets.

Berkshire Partners Makes Strategic Investment in RJW Logistics Group

December 3, 2024

Transportation

Boston-based private equity firm Berkshire Partners has made a strategic (majority) investment in RJW Logistics Group, a Woodridge, Illinois–based provider of retail logistics and consolidation services for consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands. RJW CEO Kevin Williamson and other management will remain significant investors, and prior investor Mason Wells will remain a minority holder; the deal is intended to support RJW's growth, innovation and geographic expansion.

SAM Companies Acquires John F. Watson & Company

March 9, 2021

Engineering Services

SAM Companies, a national geospatial and construction services firm based in Austin, Texas, has acquired John F. Watson & Company, a Midland, Texas-based geospatial services and consulting firm that specializes in renewable energy and natural resource development. The acquisition expands SAM's capabilities and client relationships in the renewable energy and electric utility markets and adds JFWCo staff and leadership to SAM's team.