San Francisco Equity Partners Acquires Formula Corp, a Leader in Sustainable Cleaning Products Manufacturing
In a strategic move to expand its portfolio of specialty manufacturing businesses, San Francisco Equity Partners (SFEP) has announced the acquisition of a majority stake in Formula Corp, a leading developer and manufacturer of custom-blended cleaning products for both consumer and professional markets. The financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed, but the transaction underscores SFEP’s commitment to investing in high-growth consumer verticals.
A Legacy of Innovation in Cleaning Solutions
Founded by Chas Werner and Alan Gangl, Formula Corp has established itself as an innovator in the formulation and contract manufacturing of cleaning products. Headquartered in Auburn, WA, the company operates out of two facilities spanning 80,000 square feet, including a state-of-the-art, purpose-built manufacturing plant. Over decades of growth, Formula Corp has earned a reputation for delivering turnkey solutions that meet the evolving needs of its diverse customer base.
The company specializes in formulating and manufacturing a wide range of cleaning products, including laundry detergents, dish soaps, hand soaps, surface cleaners, and specialty cleaning solutions. Beyond blending and filling, Formula Corp offers comprehensive services such as R&D, formulation development, label and packaging design, regulatory compliance, and fulfillment. This end-to-end approach has made it a trusted partner for leading national retailers, consumer product brands, professional cleaning companies, and industrial clients.
One of Formula Corp’s standout strengths lies in its expertise in green chemistry and sustainable practices. The company has developed a niche in creating eco-friendly cleaning products and packaging solutions, aligning with the growing consumer demand for environmentally responsible options. Additionally, Formula Corp provides robust private label brand support, enabling its customers to launch competitive products under their own names.
Strategic Partnership for Long-Term Growth
As part of the acquisition, Formula Corp co-founders Chas Werner and Alan Gangl will retain minority ownership stakes in the company. Their continued involvement ensures continuity and alignment with SFEP’s vision for scaling the business.
Commenting on the partnership, Werner and Gangl stated:
“Formula Corp has built a great foundation for growth due to its strength in green chemistry and private label manufacturing. We chose SFEP as the company’s partner due to the firm’s successful track record in the home care and personal care space, coupled with its experience building contract manufacturing businesses in multiple categories.”
SFEP’s acquisition of Formula Corp marks the firm’s fifth platform investment in specialty manufacturing businesses serving high-growth consumer sectors. Known for its hands-on approach, SFEP collaborates closely with management teams to drive operational excellence and accelerate growth.
Scott Potter, Managing Partner at SFEP, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership:
“We’re excited to partner with the Formula Corp team and to support them with our experience building best-in-class private label and contract manufacturing companies in other verticals. The company’s strengths are well aligned with long-term trends in cleaning products, and Formula Corp has become a manufacturing partner of choice to leading retailers, brands, and distributors.”
Why This Acquisition Matters
The cleaning products industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer awareness of hygiene, sustainability, and environmental impact. Formula Corp’s expertise in green chemistry positions it perfectly to capitalize on these trends. By partnering with SFEP, the company gains access to additional resources, industry connections, and operational insights to scale its operations and expand its market presence.
SFEP’s investment also highlights the growing importance of private label manufacturing in the consumer goods sector. As retailers and brands seek cost-effective ways to differentiate themselves, companies like Formula Corp play a critical role in bringing innovative, high-quality products to market.
About Formula Corp
Formula Corp operates as a full-service provider for cleaning product development and manufacturing. Its capabilities span the entire product lifecycle, from formulation and blending to packaging and regulatory compliance. The company serves a diverse clientele, ranging from some of the largest U.S. retailers to small independent brands. For more information, visit www.formulacorp.com.
About San Francisco Equity Partners
San Francisco Equity Partners is a private equity firm dedicated to partnering with lower middle-market companies across the consumer value chain. With a focus on operational excellence and strategic growth, SFEP leverages its extensive industry experience and network to help its portfolio companies achieve their full potential. For more details, visit www.sfequitypartners.com.
