First Atlantic is interested primarily in acquiring controlling positions through its funds in businesses that it can help build through operating improvements and add-on acquisitions. In particular, the firm looks for: (a) companies with strong expansion opportunities, either internal or through acquisition; and (b) companies with a sound business foundation where a limited number of identifiable changes in operating practices or business strategy can substantially improve performance.


First Atlantic focuses on businesses which share the following characteristics:

    • Enterprise values between $75 and $300 million.
    • An entrepreneurial, highly motivated management team with a proven track record.
    • Large, growing or specialized markets that are relatively immune to rapid technological obsolescence.
    • A strong business foundation which can serve as a platform for internal growth or acquisition.
    • A fragmented industry structure that facilitates growth both internally and through acquisitions.
    • Identifiable opportunities to add value through a limited number of operating improvements.


While not limited to any specific industry focus, First Atlantic has a strong record and continuing interest in the industrial and consumer goods, packaging, food processing, general manufacturing, and value-added distribution industries. The firm also has an interest in select service industries, particularly those with a business-to-business focus.