Fortress Investment Group announced that funds managed by its affiliates have successfully acquired Infra Pipe Solutions (IPS), a leading manufacturer of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes and structures. Infra Pipe Solutions is recognized for its diverse product portfolio sold under renowned brand names like Sclairpipe®, Weholite®, Endopure®, and Enduct®.
IPS specializes in producing HDPE pipes for a range of applications, including pressure, gravity-fed, and low-pressure uses. Notably, its Sclairpipe and EndoPure lines support pressure applications with sizes ranging from 0.5 to 63 inches in internal diameter, while its Weholite structural profile wall pipe caters to gravity-fed and low-pressure needs with custom sizes up to an impressive 132 inches in diameter.
Strategic Partnership with Fortress
As part of this acquisition, funds managed by Fortress affiliates now hold a majority stake in Infra Pipe Solutions, with the company’s management team retaining a minority share. This partnership marks a significant milestone in IPS’s journey, setting the stage for accelerated growth and enhanced investment opportunities.
Bill Donaldson, CEO of Infra Pipe Solutions, highlighted the importance of the partnership, stating:
“Our new relationship with Fortress signals a pivotal next chapter for IPS. We foresee strong and sustained demand for our products as billions of dollars are committed to infrastructure projects across North America. From expanding potable water transmission in the U.S. to building broadband networks in rural areas and supporting clean-energy initiatives, IPS is uniquely positioned to supply essential products for these transformative projects.”
Donaldson emphasized the company’s readiness to scale operations to meet increasing demand driven by advancements in AI, telecommunications, and clean energy.
Fortress’s Vision for Growth
Ben Green, Director at Fortress, expressed optimism about IPS’s market leadership, stating:
“IPS holds a highly favorable position in the HDPE product manufacturing space, with the industry’s most comprehensive product range and manufacturing footprint. Our investment will further empower the company to achieve its growth ambitions and enhance its ability to meet the increasing demand for HDPE products. We are excited to collaborate with IPS’s exceptional management team on executing their strategic vision.”
Market Leadership and Geographic Presence
Infra Pipe Solutions operates from five strategically located manufacturing plants across North America:
- Canada: Saskatoon, SK, and Huntsville, ON
- United States: Rockaway, NJ; Pryor, OK; and Greeneville, TN
This broad geographic footprint supports IPS’s capacity to serve diverse industries, including potable water, wastewater, stormwater, geothermal, natural gas, mining, and telecommunications.
IPS’s product offerings include:
- Pressure Applications: Sclairpipe, EndoPure, and Endopoly pipes (sizes from 0.5” to 63”).
- Gravity-Fed and Low-Pressure Applications: Weholite structural profile wall pipe (custom sizes up to 132”).
- Gas Distribution: Medium- and high-density pipes in industry-standard sizes.
- Conduit Products: Standard configurations with various color and pull tape combinations.
Advisory and Support
Fortress was advised by Moelis & Company LLC, serving as its exclusive financial advisor. Evercore acted as the placement agent for the financing of the acquisition.
About Infra Pipe Solutions
Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, Infra Pipe Solutions is a premier manufacturer of HDPE pipes and structures, boasting over five decades of expertise. The company is the North American licensee for the Weholite brand, developed by Uponor Infra Oy. IPS has built its reputation on innovation, sustainability, and meeting the evolving needs of critical infrastructure sectors.
About Fortress Investment Group
Founded in 1998, Fortress Investment Group LLC is a globally recognized investment manager, overseeing $48 billion in assets as of June 30, 2024. The firm serves a diverse range of institutional clients and private investors with investment strategies spanning credit, real estate, private equity, and permanent capital. For more information, visit www.fortress.com.
The acquisition of Infra Pipe Solutions marks an exciting chapter for both organizations, driving advancements in infrastructure development while addressing critical needs in water management, energy, and telecommunications. This partnership exemplifies the shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and long-term growth.