Wynnchurch Capital

BUSINESS: Humanetics is the result of the merger of First Technology Safety Systems (FTSS) and Denton, Inc (Denton). Today, it is a leading global supplier, designer and manufacturer of sophisticated crash test dummies, associated technical support and laboratory services. It is also a market leader in the development and supply of finite element software used in computerized crash test simulations and also provides static and dynamic strain measurement products and services.

TRANSACTION: Burdened by declining market conditions and an overleveraged balance sheet, FTSS began exploring restructuring options in 2009. Wynnchurch worked with the company’s existing lenders and shareholders to purchase FTSS and restructure the business. Subsequently, Wynnchurch partnered with the owners of Denton, a company which was also suffering from the declines and pressures of the global automotive industry, to form Humanetics.

OPPORTUNITY: Humanetics represented an opportunity to create an industry-leading company while investing at a cyclical trough at an attractive value. The company is well-positioned to benefit from improving global market conditions and continue to grow through new product development efforts and expansion into select new geographies.

STRATEGY: Wynnchurch is working with the management team to integrate the former FTSS and Denton businesses and continue investing in research and development to address new and growing end-market opportunities and best serve its global customer base.