Kinderhook Industries, LLC, announced the acquisition of Kaizen Auto Care, LLC, in partnership with Jacob Tilzer and LNC Partners. Kaizen is a leading regional collision repair provider with significant presence in key markets across the western U.S.
Kaizen represents Kinderhook’s 30th automotive/light manufacturing platform investment. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Founded in 2013 by Tilzer and headquartered in Scottsdale, AZ, Kaizen Auto Care is a full-service collision repair chain that provides paint and body repair, auto glass repair, fleet services and EV specialty services to individuals and businesses through 48 locations across Arizona, Colorado, Southern California, Iowa, Nebraska and Nevada. The company aims to provide high-quality customer service and repairs to consumers, fostering strong partnerships with its insurance carriers. Kaizen partnered with LNC in 2021.
In connection with the transaction, Vince Brock will be joining the Kaizen leadership team as CEO and will be teaming up with Tilzer, president of Kaizen, for the next phase of the company’s growth. Brock was previously the CEO of ProCare Collision, a Texas-based collision MSO and former portfolio company of Kinderhook. In partnership with Kinderhook, Brock grew ProCare Collision from eight to 45 locations, becoming the third-largest collision repair operation in Texas and one of the largest in the country. In 2021, Brock and Kinderhook sold ProCare to Classic Collision.
“I am thrilled to embark upon this new chapter of growth and expansion with Kinderhook and Kaizen,” said Brock. “I am extremely impressed with the growth Kaizen has achieved to date. The company has great shops with great people in great markets -- a testament to the company’s commitment to excellence. I look forward to working with Jacob and the Kaizen team to continue building the company into an industry leader while setting the standard for growth and high-quality repairs.”
“The partnership with Kinderhook is major milestone for our company," Tilzer said. "I’m excited about working with Vince and Kinderhook as we expand and continue to focus on providing the best working environment for our employees and exceptional repair experiences for our partners and customers. I would also like to thank the entire team from LNC who showed an incredible commitment to investing in our company and people.”
“Kinderhook is excited to partner with Vince, Jacob and the LNC Team to continue to invest in Kaizen’s growth. Kaizen is a platform with marquee locations, great clients and exceptional employees and we believe Kinderhook is uniquely positioned to help Kaizen achieve its next phase of growth,” said Michael Zoch, managing director at Kinderhook.
Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal counsel to Kinderhook. DLA Piper LLP served as the legal advisor to Kaizen and LNC. Financing for the transaction was provided by Twin Brook Capital Partners.
