Controlled Access, Inc. (“Controlled Access,” “CAI,” or the “Company”) is a Marietta, Georgia-based access controls integrator specializing in the design, installation, maintenance, and repair of automated gate systems, access control systems, video surveillance components, audiovisual (AV) solutions, and other low-voltage systems. Founded in 1993, the Company has built a strong reputation as a trusted partner for general contractors, developers, and property managers across multifamily, residential, government/municipal, and commercial markets in the Southeast U.S.
After the passing of the Company’s founders, ownership transitioned to their spouses, who were never involved in the business. Recognizing that a sale would be in the best interest of the business, its employees, and their families, they sought advice from their advisory board, comprised of their CPA and attorney, who recommended the spouses engage an M&A advisory firm to navigate an unfamiliar and complex process.
The Company had a strong foundation, with a long-time, experienced management team, and was well-positioned for continued growth provided there would be continued access to capital. The owners’ priority was finding a buyer who could ensure the Company’s long-term success while creating a smooth transition for its employees and customers and also providing liquidity necessary for the estates to exit the business.
Bravaldo Capital Advisors (“BCA”) was engaged as the Company’s exclusive financial advisor to lead the sale process. Since the owners had limited experience with M&A transactions, BCA worked closely with them, their advisory board members, and the Company’s management team to provide strategic guidance and structure a competitive sales process. The firm collaborated with stakeholders to ready, package, and position the Company to transact, identify and engage strategic and financial buyers, and drive competition among interested parties.
The Company was successfully sold to Guardian Access Solutions, a Nashville-based provider of access control solutions and a portfolio company of CenterOak Partners. The transaction resulted in a highly favorable outcome for the shareholders and positioned the Company for long-term success under new ownership. The Company’s long-time General Manager continues to lead the Georgia operations under Guardian Access Solutions, ensuring continuity for employees and customers while supporting the next phase of growth.
Bravaldo Capital Advisors is a boutique Atlanta based mergers & acquisitions and corporate finance advisory firm, providing independent economic and financial advice and execution services for lower middle market companies in a variety of industries with revenues typically between $10 million and $300 million. BCA offers a full range of transaction and advisory services, guiding clients through sell-side transactions and exit strategy planning, growth through acquisition, debt restructuring and corporate recapitalization. The BCA team is a senior deal team with extensive knowledge and insight into the full life cycle of M&A and corporate finance engagements.
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