Fortress Pest Brands Acquires A-1 Exterminators

Fortress Pest Brands, a portfolio company of private equity firm Riverarch Equity Partners, has acquired A-1 Inc. Exterminators, based in Chesapeake, Va. The transaction was completed on April 30, with the acquisition announcement made by Cetane Associates, who served as the sole arranger to A-1 Exterminators.

A-1 Exterminators is a third-generation, family-owned pest control company serving Virginia since 1970. Led by mother and son team Karen Pye and Joe Potter, the company provides comprehensive pest, termite, mosquito, rodent, and moisture control services.

Pye said it was a difficult decision to move forward with the sale of their family business, but Cetane’s patience, guidance, and advice made the process more manageable.

“They provided reassurance every step of the way and were always available to answer our questions and address our concerns,” she said. “Cetane found the right match for our company, giving us peace of mind that the business would be in capable hands for years to come. We are grateful for their professionalism, expertise and support throughout the entire journey.”

Fortress, through its operating brands, provides residential and commercial pest prevention and control services in Washington D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina. Fortress is a portfolio company of Riverarch, a middle-market private equity firm. Since its founding in 2011, Riverarch has invested in 40 platform companies and completed more than 130 add-on acquisitions.

Nick Stein, director at Cetane, said, “It was a privilege to work alongside Karen and Joe throughout this process. We’re grateful for the opportunity to help facilitate this transaction and are excited to see A-1 Exterminators begin its next chapter with Fortress.”

Cetane served as the sole arranger to A-1 Exterminators. Cetane advised on the sale, including providing an initial valuation opinion, marketing the business through a confidential process, assisting in negotiating the final deal terms, and coordinating the due diligence process.