For gate & access control business owners
Thinking about selling your gate or access control business?
We are a holding company actively pursuing bolt-on acquisitions in the gate and access control sector. Our focus is on businesses generating between $1 million and $3 million in sales. We aim to strategically enhance our portfolio and drive growth within this industry. If you fit this profile, we would love to connect and explore potential opportunities.
Why sell to Grackson
Selling a business you built is a big decision. Here is what you can expect when you talk with us.
Owner to owner
You talk directly with Ryan Nelson, a founder and operator, not a big-name private equity firm.
Confidential from the first call
Your inquiry stays between us. We will not contact your employees, customers or suppliers without your permission.
Your name, team and customers
We want to understand what you have built and talk openly about how your company name, your people and your customer relationships are taken care of.
A transition that fits you
Whether you want to step away or stay involved for a while, we will work with you on a transition plan that fits your goals.
Built to grow
We are building a group of gate and access control businesses and aim to drive growth within the industry, not just buy and flip.
What we look for
We are interested in owner-operated businesses in the gate and access control sector, for example:
- Commercial and residential gate installation and service
- Gate operators, automation and repair
- Access control, keypad and intercom integration
- Fence companies with a gate and access control focus
- Annual sales between $1 million and $3 million
- EBITDA margin above 15%
- Minimum of 3 years positive cash flow
- Low capex with simple operations
- Privately held and U.S. based
Not a perfect fit? Reach out anyway. We are happy to have a confidential conversation.
See full investment criteriaHow it works
A simple, straightforward process. You decide the pace, and you can stop at any point.
Introductory call
A no-obligation conversation about your business, your goals and what you want for your team and customers.
NDA & review
We sign a non-disclosure agreement before you share any financials, then review the business together.
Letter of intent
If it is a good fit, we put a clear proposal in writing, including price, structure and transition.
Close & transition
We finish due diligence, close the deal and work with you on a smooth handoff.
Ryan Nelson
Principal
Meet Mr. Nelson, a founder with over 20 years of hands-on operational experience. He holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering from Purdue University and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, respectively. Additionally, he earned his MBA with honors from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. As a relatable entrepreneur, Mr. Nelson is here to connect with fellow founders and demonstrate that he's not just another big-name private equity firm, but a genuine partner ready to support your vision.
Questions owners ask
Will this stay confidential?
Yes. Your inquiry is seen only by Ryan Nelson. We sign an NDA before reviewing any financial information, and we do not contact your employees, customers or suppliers without your permission.
Will my employees keep their jobs?
Your team is a big part of what makes your business valuable. We want to talk with you early about your people and how they are taken care of through the transition.
Do I have to stay on after the sale?
That is up to you. Some owners want to step away quickly and others prefer to stay involved for a period of time. We will plan the transition around your goals.
What happens to my company name?
Your name carries the reputation you have built with customers. We are open to discussing keeping it, and it is something we will talk through with you.
I am working with a broker. Can we still talk?
Absolutely. Brokers and advisors are welcome, and we are happy to work through them.
How long does the process take?
It depends on many factors, but 2 to 8 months from our first call to closing is typical.
Is it too early to reach out?
No. Many owners start with an informal conversation long before they are ready to sell. There is no obligation.
Contact
If you are a business owner looking to exit, please contact Mr. Nelson at:
Ryan-Nelson@gracksoncapital.com
Every conversation is confidential and there is no obligation.