Lindsay Goldberg to Acquire EMCO Chemical Distributors
Lindsay Goldberg, a leading private equity firm known for partnering with families and founders to build enduring businesses, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire EMCO Chemical Distributors (“EMCO” or the “Company”), a premier, founder-owned chemical distribution business headquartered in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin. The financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Founded in 1971 by Edward Polen, EMCO Chemical Distributors has grown from a small regional operation into one of the largest independent chemical distributors in North America. Over the course of more than five decades, the Company has built an expansive and diversified operation that distributes, blends, and packages more than 5,000 individual SKUs serving over 4,000 customers across a broad spectrum of end markets. With a workforce of more than 500 employees, EMCO has established a trusted reputation for reliability, safety, and customer-focused service throughout the midwestern United States.
The Company’s infrastructure spans eight distribution and packaging facilities, an application laboratory, a dedicated environmental services facility, and a private delivery fleet that enables efficient, just-in-time service to its customer base. This vertically integrated footprint allows EMCO to provide not only chemical distribution, but also customized formulation, blending, packaging, and logistics solutions — all key differentiators in an increasingly competitive market.
Lindsay Goldberg’s decision to acquire EMCO follows what the firm describes as a “multi-year relationship” with founder Edward Polen, during which both organizations developed a shared vision for the Company’s next chapter.
Our investment in EMCO is the culmination of a long-standing relationship with founder Edward Polen and the leadership team,” said John Holland and Eric Fry, Partners at Lindsay Goldberg. “EMCO’s stellar reputation, deep supplier relationships, loyal employee base, and unmatched regional infrastructure set it apart as a true market leader. These strengths have been key to EMCO’s success for more than five decades, and we believe they form the foundation for continued growth. We are excited to support EMCO’s management as they build on this strong legacy.
For Lindsay Goldberg, the acquisition aligns with the firm’s broader strategy of partnering with family- and founder-led businesses that demonstrate strong cultures, durable market positions, and significant potential for long-term growth. Over its history, Lindsay Goldberg has invested in over 60 founder-led companies across diverse industries, often playing a pivotal role in helping them expand through strategic partnerships, operational expertise, and growth capital.
A Founder’s Legacy
For EMCO’s founder and CEO, Edward Polen, the transaction represents both the culmination of a lifetime’s work and the beginning of a new era for the Company.
Building EMCO over the last 54 years has been the greatest privilege of my professional life,” said Polen. “From the very beginning, my goal was to create a company where people matter — where we treat our suppliers and customers as true partners and where our employees are empowered to make a meaningful impact every day. I’m immensely proud of the culture we’ve built together. It has been the cornerstone of our success, and I am confident that Lindsay Goldberg is the ideal partner to carry that culture forward into the future.
Under Polen’s leadership, EMCO has distinguished itself not only through operational excellence but also through its strong commitment to safety, sustainability, and community involvement. The company’s people-first philosophy and emphasis on long-term relationships have earned it the loyalty of both employees and customers — many of whom have been with EMCO for decades.
As part of the transaction, Polen will retire from his role as CEO upon closing. Frank Bergonzi, a Lindsay Goldberg Affiliate Partner and veteran executive in the chemicals industry, will be appointed Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of EMCO. Bergonzi brings over 35 years of industry experience, having held senior leadership roles across distribution, manufacturing, and specialty chemical companies.
I have known and respected Edward Polen and the EMCO platform for over 30 years,” said Bergonzi. “Edward has built a world-class business and a culture of excellence that is truly special. I am honored to continue his legacy and to work alongside EMCO’s talented management team. Together, we see significant opportunities to grow EMCO’s reach — expanding into new products, markets, and services — while maintaining the values and customer commitment that define the Company.
Positioned for Future Growth
With Lindsay Goldberg’s investment, EMCO is well-positioned to accelerate its growth trajectory. The firm plans to support EMCO in expanding its geographic footprint, enhancing its operational capabilities, and pursuing strategic acquisitions that complement its existing business lines. In addition, Lindsay Goldberg’s extensive network of industry relationships and operational advisors will provide valuable support as EMCO continues to invest in digital capabilities, sustainability initiatives, and workforce development.
The partnership also underscores the continued strength and strategic relevance of the independent chemical distribution sector, which plays a vital role in connecting global chemical manufacturers with regional and local customers. As supply chains evolve and sustainability becomes an increasing priority, distributors like EMCO that can provide flexible, compliant, and environmentally responsible solutions are well-positioned to thrive.
Advisors
Lindsay Goldberg was advised on the transaction by Latham & Watkins LLP (legal advisor), with Chemlink Partners and J.P. Morgan serving as financial advisors. Aronberg Goldgehn Davis & Garmisa served as legal advisor to EMCO Chemical Distributors.
About Lindsay Goldberg
Lindsay Goldberg is a private investment firm that partners with family- and founder-led businesses to help them scale and thrive for generations. With over $30 billion of cumulative equity capital raised since its founding, the firm takes a relationship-oriented approach, emphasizing long-term partnerships, trust, and shared values. Lindsay Goldberg has deep experience investing across sectors such as industrials, business services, healthcare, and consumer products.
About EMCO Chemical Distributors
Founded in 1971 and headquartered in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, EMCO Chemical Distributors is one of the largest independent chemical distributors in North America. The Company offers a comprehensive suite of chemical distribution, blending, packaging, and logistics services to a wide array of end markets. EMCO operates eight facilities and employs more than 500 people dedicated to delivering quality products, responsive service, and sustainable solutions.
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