1-23-15 bci burke sold

Fond du Lac based BCI Burke has been sold.  A company press release says Burke has been purchased by Incline Equity Partners, a Pittsburgh based lower middle- market private equity firm.  Founded in 1920 and headquartered in Fond du Lac, WI, Burke is a leading designer, manufacturer, and marketer of commercial playground and leisure equipment.   Former president and chief executive officer Tim Ahern says he is  proud of the Burke legacy, and its strong, respected brand name in the market. “We chose Incline because they were best positioned to guide us through the first management transition while also driving sustainable future growth,” Ahern said.  Mike Phelan, Chief Executive Officer, added, “We are excited to leverage Incline’s experience to help Burke achieve its strategic growth initiatives in both existing and new markets. Partnering with Incline will enhance Burke’s ability to provide innovative, accessible play environments for children, families, and communities worldwide.”  Wali Bacdayan, Partner with Incline, said, “Burke has an impressive history with a proven ability to garner market share.  Our investment will build upon this foundation to further grow and strengthen the company.”  This acquisition marks the second new platform investment, and ninth overall transaction, for Incline in 2014.  Incline added new platform, Hartland Controls, a market leading supplier of electrical system components to the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning market and other industrial end markets in February.  “2014 was an active, exciting year at Incline,” said Justin Bertram, Partner.  “We are pleased with our investment pace, and we are optimistic for similar activity in 2015.”