Kohler Co. and Platinum Equity announced the completion of the transaction to establish Kohler Energy as an independent entity. Platinum Equity now holds the majority ownership of the Energy business, while Kohler Co. remains an investment partner. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
With this move, Kohler Energy is positioned strategically to maintain its robust performance in the global energy resilience market as a separate entity from Kohler Co. Brian Melka, who has over a decade of experience at Kohler and has been instrumental in driving the group's growth and success, assumes the role of CEO of the Energy business. David Kohler continues to serve on its Board of Directors.
“This strategic move allows Kohler to focus and invest in our global Kitchen & Bath, Wellness, and Hospitality businesses while also positioning the Energy business to reach its full potential under the ownership of Platinum Equity,” said David Kohler, chair and CEO of Kohler Co. “I want to thank the entire Energy team; the performance of this business over the last three years has been remarkable. Exciting times are ahead, and Energy will forever have a special place in our company’s heritage.”
Brian Melka, CEO of Kohler Energy, added, “We are excited for this next phase of Kohler Energy with Platinum Equity as a partner. The demand for resilient energy is growing, and the world needs much more of what we do. Kohler has been an excellent steward of our business for more than 100 years, and this decision positions Kohler Energy to better deliver on that demand. Platinum Equity firmly supports our growth path ahead and can help further accelerate our progress in the global energy resilience industry.”
Managing industrial products
Platinum Equity is a global investment firm with more than US$48 billion of assets under management and is an experienced partner in the industrial products sector.
“Platinum is committed to strengthening Kohler Energy’s position as an industry leader and investing in development of a new generation of innovative energy resilience solutions,” said Platinum Equity co-president Jacob Kotzubei. “We are excited about the prospects for the business, which has been at the forefront of energy resilience for more than a century. We have tremendous respect for David Kohler and the Kohler leadership team, appreciate their confidence in us, and are grateful for their continued partnership.”
“The energy resilience business has an outstanding leadership team, dedicated employees and an opportunity to capitalise on the tailwinds driving demand for reliable power solutions for individuals, businesses, and communities around the world,” said Platinum Equity managing director Matthew Louie. “We are thrilled to work with Brian and the management team to continue investing in the company’s human capital, infrastructure, customer and vendor partnerships, and growth.”
