River Associates Exits Trident Solutions in Deal with Align Capital

Trident Solutions, which specializes in damage prevention and identification products for the utility and construction sectors, operated under River Associates’ ownership while integrating five distinct acquisitions. The company’s portfolio includes brands such as Presco, Rhino Marking & Protection Systems, and William Frick & Company. These entities provide essential safety infrastructure, including tracer wire, marking posts, and industrial-grade labels.

Trident CEO Blair Cook credited the private equity firm with providing the resources necessary to scale while maintaining autonomy for the management team. Blake Lewis, a principal at River Associates, noted that the company’s success stemmed from a disciplined focus on operational integration and customer service throughout the hold period. Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed. Baird acted as the financial advisor for the transaction, with legal counsel provided by Holland & Knight LLP for the sellers and Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP for Align Capital Partners.