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Bristow Acquires Berry Aviation from Acorn

Bristow Group Acquires Berry Aviation from Acorn Capital Management
Oklahoma City-based Bristow Group Inc. (NYSE: VTOL) has completed the acquisition of Berry Aviation, a prominent provider of specialized aviation services to both U.S. government and commercial clients, from private equity firm Acorn Capital Management. This strategic transaction is designed to bolster Bristow’s government services portfolio, with a particular emphasis on search and rescue operations across the United Kingdom, Ireland, and the Netherlands. Concurrently, Bristow is divesting its offshore helicopter support business in Norway, signaling a shift in its operational focus.
Expansion and Growth Under Acorn Capital
During Acorn Capital Management’s ownership, Berry Aviation significantly expanded its operational capabilities. The company developed its unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) division, enhanced its maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services, and grew its fleets dedicated to government and cargo aircraft. Additionally, Berry optimized its on-demand cargo operations, reinforcing its reputation for safety, operational excellence, and reliable mission execution. These efforts positioned Berry Aviation for sustained long-term growth within its specialized markets.
Rick Nagel, Managing Partner at Acorn Capital Management, expressed pride in the progress achieved during their partnership. He highlighted the expansion of the company’s capabilities, strengthened leadership, and investments in new growth platforms. Nagel also emphasized confidence in Bristow as a strategic partner that appreciates Berry’s unique value to its customers and employees, extending best wishes for the company’s future success under its new ownership.
Strategic Realignment and Market Implications
Bristow’s acquisition of Berry Aviation aligns with a broader corporate strategy to increase revenue streams from government services, which are considered less susceptible to the volatility of the oil and gas sector. By concentrating on government contracts and search and rescue missions, Bristow aims to establish a more stable and resilient revenue base. The concurrent sale of its Norwegian offshore helicopter operations is anticipated to attract interest from other operators, potentially altering the competitive dynamics within that market segment.
Industry analysts suggest that Bristow’s strategic repositioning may prompt competitors to reevaluate their market approaches or pursue acquisitions to maintain competitive standing. The transaction has also generated heightened investor interest in Bristow’s government services division, reflecting confidence in the company’s pivot toward more sustainable business lines.
KippsDeSanto & Co. acted as exclusive financial advisor to Acorn Capital Management, while legal counsel was provided by McAfee & Taft.
About Acorn Capital Management
Acorn Capital Management is a middle-market private fund management firm specializing in aerospace, defense, intelligence, and space sectors. The firm collaborates with founder-led and entrepreneur-owned businesses to accelerate growth through strategic investment and operational expertise.
For further details, the original press release is available at PR Newswire.

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