2015

Industry: Manufacturing & Distribution of Food Products

Location: Westwood, Kansas

Buyer: BOK Financial Capital Corporation

Buyer Website: www.bokf.com

The DVS Group’s Role: Buy-Side Advisory to Private Equity

The Deal:
After more than 30 years of ownership, Mary Steeb sought to exit the business, while co-owner Bill Steeb had developed innovative growth initiatives aimed at expanding the company’s presence beyond the breakfast waffle category into new meal segments. To support this growth without compromising long-term stability, Bill sought a partner that could provide patient capital, a low-debt structure, and a long-term ownership mindset. The DVS Group facilitated a connection between BOK Financial Capital Corporation and the company, aligning both parties through a tailored transaction structure that emphasized equity over leverage. BOK’s ability to provide patient capital, rather than a traditional fund lifecycle, was a key factor in the partnership. Bill Steeb retained a significant equity stake, continuing as a minority owner and remaining actively involved to execute the company’s growth strategy.

About The DVS Group:
The DVS Group is a professional lower middle market M&A services firm based in Kansas City. We represent both buy-side and sell-side clients domestically and internationally, focusing primarily on businesses with $10M-$250M in revenue. As industry generalists, we specialize in a highly customized approach to owners exiting their business, and proprietary (off-market) deal-flow for our buyers. With over two decades refining our process, the DVS Group is your key to achieving unparalleled growth through acquisition, or a smooth transition through the sale of your business.