The metal fabrication industry in the US is crucial for various sectors, including automotive, aerospace, and construction. Companies within this industry typically engage in processes such as cutting, bending, and assembling metal to create products ranging from simple components to complex machinery. Its future leans towards embracing advanced technology, with a growing emphasis on automation, sustainability, and lightweight materials. As demand continues to surge for custom metal products, the industry is also witnessing shifts towards more efficient manufacturing processes that incorporate eco-friendly practices, showcasing a commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.


The following list showcases a range of 17 notable metal fabrication investors in the US, spanning private equity firms, corporate players, and venture capital groups. Based in major cities such as New York, Chicago, and Washington, D.C., these investors vary in size, with many managing thousands of employees and significant assets. The investors featured here, founded between 1933 and 2005, were active in making a total of 222 investments in 2024, cementing their influence in the metal fabrication sector.


Top 17 Metal Fabrication Investors in the US


1. U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)

  • Website: energy.gov
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 597
  • LinkedIn: u-s--department-of-energy

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is a public entity established in 1977, responsible for overseeing national energy policy, energy production, and nuclear power research. It serves various stakeholders, including government entities and the public, by providing guidance on energy efficiency, funding opportunities, and conducting research to address energy challenges. In 2024, the DOE has been involved in several notable transactions relevant to the metal fabrication industry, including grants to Nucor Corporation for $400,000, Willamette Technical Fabricators for over $1 million, and SSAB for a substantial $500 million. These investments highlight the DOE's commitment to supporting advancements in metal fabrication technologies and processes, particularly those that enhance energy efficiency and sustainability.


2. Advantage Capital


Advantage Capital is a venture capital firm based in New Orleans, Louisiana, founded in 1992. The firm specializes in providing equity and debt financing to small businesses, with a particular emphasis on agribusiness, solar projects, and affordable housing. However, Advantage Capital has also made significant investments in the metal fabrication industry, as evidenced by their transactions with companies such as Advanced Metal Components and Roller Die + Forming. These transactions, primarily in the form of debt financing, highlight Advantage Capital's commitment to supporting businesses in the metal fabrication sector, helping them to grow and thrive in underserved communities. Their flexible capital solutions and focus on entrepreneurs make them a valuable partner for companies in this industry.


3. Ryerson

  • Website: ryerson.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1842
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: ryerson

Joseph T. Ryerson & Son, Inc., founded in 1842 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a prominent metal processing and distribution company serving various industries, including transportation and industrial automation. Ryerson has been actively expanding its footprint in the metal fabrication sector through strategic acquisitions. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Central Steel & Wire Co., a significant metal service center, and Apogee Steel Fabrication, which specializes in various metal processing services. Additionally, Ryerson has acquired Norlen Incorporated and Laserflex Corporation, both of which enhance their fabrication and processing capabilities. These acquisitions demonstrate Ryerson's commitment to providing customized metal solutions and timely delivery to its business customers, solidifying its position as a key player in the metal fabrication industry.


4. The Carlyle Group

  • Website: carlyle.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1987
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 25
  • LinkedIn: the-carlyle-group

The Carlyle Group Inc. is a prominent investment management firm founded in 1987, specializing in private equity, real assets, and private credit. With a global presence and a focus on driving long-term value for its clients, Carlyle serves a diverse range of institutional investors, including pension funds and sovereign wealth funds. Among its notable transactions, Carlyle acquired Forgital Group, a company involved in the manufacturing of forged and machined components, for $1 billion in May 2019. Additionally, the acquisition of Vigor Industrial in July 2019 further emphasizes Carlyle's engagement in the metal fabrication sector, as Vigor provides a range of services including shipbuilding and repair, which are closely related to metal fabrication. Other relevant transactions include the acquisition of Universal Industrial Sales and Paradigm Precision, both of which operate in sectors that intersect with metal fabrication, showcasing Carlyle's strategic investments in this industry.


5. Reliance, Inc.

  • Website: reliance.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Scottsdale, Arizona, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1939
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: reliance-rs

Reliance, Inc. is a corporate investor based in Scottsdale, Arizona, founded in 1939. As a metal solutions provider, Reliance specializes in a diverse array of metal products and processing services, catering to industries such as aerospace and automotive. The company operates through a network of subsidiaries, ensuring efficient distribution and customer service. Notably, Reliance has made significant acquisitions in the metal fabrication sector, including Metals USA for $772 million in 2013, GH Metal Solutions in 2012, and Nu-Tech Precision Metals in 2021. These strategic acquisitions highlight Reliance's commitment to enhancing its metal processing capabilities and expanding its market presence, reinforcing its position as a key player in the metal fabrication industry.


6. The Riverside Company


The Riverside Company is a private equity investment firm based in New York, specializing in providing flexible capital solutions and strategic guidance to smaller middle-market businesses across various industries. Founded in 1988, Riverside has built a diverse portfolio of over 140 companies globally. Among its notable transactions, Riverside has acquired companies relevant to the metal fabrication sector, including Keycast, a manufacturer in the steel casting industry, and Future Metals, which is involved in metal distribution. These acquisitions highlight Riverside's commitment to investing in businesses that contribute to the metal fabrication landscape, making them a significant player in this field.


7. Lincoln Electric

  • Website: lincolnelectric.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1895
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: lincoln-electric

Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of welding products and equipment, serving various industries including automotive and construction. Founded in 1895 and based in Cleveland, Ohio, the company offers a wide range of products such as welding machines, cutting equipment, and safety gear, along with training programs to enhance customer skills. Lincoln Electric operates globally, providing solutions that improve productivity and safety in manufacturing processes. The company has made several strategic acquisitions to bolster its position in the metal fabrication industry, including:1. **Inovatech Engineering** (Dec 03, 2018) - Acquired a Canadian manufacturer of advanced robotic plasma cutting systems, enhancing Lincoln Electric's automation strategy in structural steel fabrication.2. **Baker Industries** (Apr 01, 2019) - Acquired a company specializing in parts, fixtures, and custom tooling for the automotive and aerospace markets, expected to significantly boost automation revenues.3. **Weartech International** (Mar 06, 2012) - Acquired a producer of cobalt-based hard facing and wear-resistant welding consumables, expanding their consumable product portfolio.4. **Harris Products Group** (Jan 18, 2005) - Signed a letter of intent to acquire a manufacturer of brazing and soldering alloys, further diversifying their offerings in welding and metalworking solutions.These transactions highlight Lincoln Electric's commitment to enhancing its capabilities and offerings in the metal fabrication sector, making it a significant player in the industry.


8. American Industrial Partners


American Industrial Partners is a private equity firm based in New York, specializing in operationally-oriented investments in industrial businesses. Founded in 2005, AIP focuses on enhancing the performance of its portfolio companies through strategic financial support and operational improvements. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Aluminium Duffel, an aluminium rolling mill in Belgium, which highlights their engagement in the metal fabrication sector. They also acquired ADDMAN Engineering, a company involved in advanced manufacturing processes, and Canam Group Inc., which operates in the construction and metal fabrication space. Their diverse portfolio and focus on industrial firms seeking to optimize operations make them a significant player in the metal fabrication industry.


9. Patrick Industries, Inc.


Patrick Industries, Inc. is a corporate investor based in Elkhart, Indiana, specializing in manufacturing and distributing component products and building materials for the Recreational Vehicles, Marine, Manufactured Housing, and Industrial markets. Founded in 1959, the company has established a strong network of brands and operates across multiple states, providing high-quality materials to manufacturers. Notably, Patrick Industries has made several strategic acquisitions in the metal fabrication sector, including Mishawaka Sheet Metal LLC, which enhances their manufacturing capabilities in the RV and industrial markets. They also acquired Metal Moulding Corp., a manufacturer of custom metal fabricated products for the marine market, and Geremarie Corporation, which specializes in high-precision aluminum components. Additionally, their acquisition of Coyote Mfg Co. further strengthens their portfolio in steel and aluminum products, demonstrating their commitment to expanding their presence in the metal fabrication industry.


10. 3D Systems Corporation

  • Website: 3dsystems.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Rock Hill, South Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1986
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: 3d-systems

3D Systems Corporation is a corporate investor based in Rock Hill, South Carolina, specializing in additive manufacturing and 3D printing technologies. Founded in 1986, the company has established itself as a leader in providing innovative solutions for various industries, including healthcare and aerospace. In recent years, 3D Systems has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its capabilities in custom manufacturing and metal fabrication. Notable transactions include the acquisition of a custom parts manufacturer for $82 million in 2013, which aimed to bolster their custom manufacturing sector. They also acquired Quickparts.com for $15.9 million in 2011, integrating e-commerce capabilities to improve their custom manufacturing services. Other significant acquisitions include Prototypers CEP and PROTOMETAL, as well as Provel, S.r.l., which expanded their design-to-manufacturing solutions in Europe. These transactions highlight 3D Systems' commitment to advancing technologies that support metal fabrication processes.


11. Wynnchurch Capital, L.P.

  • Website: wynnchurch.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Rosemont, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: wynnchurch-capital

Wynnchurch Capital, L.P. is a private equity firm based in Rosemont, Illinois, founded in 1999. The firm specializes in investments in middle-market companies across various industries, providing capital, management expertise, and strategic guidance to help businesses navigate challenges and achieve growth. Wynnchurch has a diverse portfolio, with a focus on sectors such as aerospace, manufacturing, and consumer goods. Notably, they have made significant investments in the metal fabrication industry, including the acquisition of Astro Shapes, a manufacturer of custom aluminum extrusions, and Eastern Metal Supply, which raised funds in a private equity round. Additionally, their acquisition of Wolverine Advanced Materials and involvement with Detroit Tool Metal Products Co. further highlight their commitment to the manufacturing and metal fabrication sectors.


12. Kkr

  • Website: kkr.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1976
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 74
  • LinkedIn: kkr

KKR & Co. Inc. is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976, KKR has established itself as a global leader in asset management, providing tailored solutions to institutional investors and individual clients. Among its notable transactions, KKR acquired Grupo Gallardo Balboa, a Spain-based holding company for steelmakers, highlighting its commitment to the metal fabrication sector. Other significant acquisitions include Hyperion Materials & Technologies and The Crosby Group, both of which are involved in manufacturing and materials technology, further showcasing KKR's strategic interest in industries that intersect with metal fabrication. KKR's extensive expertise and resources enable it to navigate complex investment landscapes, making it a key player in supporting growth within the metal fabrication industry.


13. Northstar Capital

  • Website: northstarcapital.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1993
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: northstar-capital

Northstar Capital is a private equity investment management firm based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 1993. Specializing in junior capital investments and equity co-investments, Northstar Capital provides tailored financing solutions to financial sponsors, business owners, and management teams across various industries. They have raised nearly $2 billion in capital since inception, demonstrating a strong track record in investment. Notably, Northstar has been involved in several transactions relevant to the metal fabrication sector, including investments in Fab Tech V Industries, Coining Manufacturing, and Industrial Magnetics. These companies are engaged in various aspects of metal fabrication, showcasing Northstar's commitment to this industry alongside their broader investment strategy in healthcare and consumer goods.


14. EMCOR Group, Inc.

  • Website: emcorgroup.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Norwalk, Connecticut, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: emcor-group-inc

EMCOR Group, Inc. is a prominent construction services company based in Norwalk, Connecticut, specializing in mechanical and electrical construction, industrial services, and energy infrastructure. Founded in 1994, the company operates through a network of over 100 subsidiaries across the United States, serving a diverse clientele that includes both businesses and government entities. EMCOR is committed to sustainability and innovation in its operations. Notably, EMCOR has made several strategic acquisitions that enhance its capabilities in mechanical contracting and industrial services, which are closely related to metal fabrication. For instance, the acquisition of Southern Industrial Constructors Inc. in 2012 and Batchelor & Kimball in 2019, both of which provide mechanical construction and maintenance services, indicate EMCOR's active role in sectors that may involve metal fabrication. Additionally, the acquisition of RepconStrickland in 2013 further expands its industrial services portfolio, reinforcing its position in the construction and mechanical services landscape.


15. Industrial Opportunity Partners, LLC


Industrial Opportunity Partners, LLC (IOP) is a private equity firm based in Evanston, Illinois, founded in 2005. The firm specializes in middle-market manufacturing and distribution businesses, providing control-equity investments and operational expertise to enhance the performance of its portfolio companies. IOP has made significant investments in the metal fabrication industry, including the acquisition of 4M Metals, a fabricator and supplier of architectural metal roofing panel systems, in May 2023. They also acquired Union Corrugating Company, a manufacturer of metal roofing systems, in January 2017. Other notable transactions include the acquisition of Aarrowcast Inc., an iron foundry, in August 2012, and Reed’s Metals Inc., which they acquired majority ownership of in October 2018. These transactions highlight IOP's commitment to investing in businesses with strong market positions within the metal fabrication sector, making them a relevant player in this industry.


16. One Equity Partners

  • Website: oneequity.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2001
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 11
  • LinkedIn: one-equity-partners

One Equity Partners is a private equity firm based in New York, founded in 2001, that focuses on investing in middle market businesses across the industrial, healthcare, and technology sectors. The firm aims to build market-leading companies through transformative business combinations and strategic partnerships, providing capital and management expertise to enhance growth. Notably, One Equity Partners has been involved in several significant transactions relevant to the metal fabrication industry, including the acquisition of Associated Spring and Hänggi, which specialize in engineered spring and precision metal component manufacturing, for a total transaction value of USD 175 million in January 2024. This acquisition highlights their commitment to investing in companies that operate within the metal fabrication space. Additionally, their acquisition of Fortaco Group, a strategic partner in heavy off-highway equipment, further demonstrates their engagement in sectors that intersect with metal fabrication.


17. Senior Aerospace

  • Website: seniorplc.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Bartlett, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1933
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • LinkedIn: senior-aerospace

Senior Aerospace, part of Senior plc, is a corporate investor based in Bartlett, Illinois, specializing in high-technology components and systems for the aerospace, defense, land vehicle, and power & energy markets. Founded in 1933, the company has a strong emphasis on engineering excellence and sustainable practices. Notably, Senior Aerospace has made several strategic acquisitions that enhance its capabilities in metal fabrication. For instance, the acquisition of Stainless Steel Products in 1995 indicates a commitment to metal fabrication, while the acquisition of Steico Industries in 2015, which specializes in precision tube and duct assemblies, further underscores their involvement in this sector. These transactions reflect Senior Aerospace's strategy to integrate metal fabrication into their broader manufacturing operations, making them a relevant player in the metal fabrication industry.



Metal Fabrication Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)Washington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)10001+1977597
Advantage CapitalNew Orleans, Louisiana, United States (USA)51-20019925
RyersonChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)1001-500018421
The Carlyle GroupWashington, D.C., District Of Columbia, United States (USA)1001-5000198725
Reliance, Inc.Scottsdale, Arizona, United States (USA)10001+19392
The Riverside CompanyNew York, New York, United States (USA)201-500198812
Lincoln ElectricCleveland, Ohio, United States (USA)10001+18953
American Industrial PartnersNew York, New York, United States (USA)51-20020058
Patrick Industries, Inc.Elkhart, Indiana, United States (USA)10001+19593
3D Systems CorporationRock Hill, South Carolina, United States (USA)1001-500019860
Wynnchurch Capital, L.P.Rosemont, Illinois, United States (USA)11-5019996
KkrNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000197674
Northstar CapitalMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-5019931
EMCOR Group, Inc.Norwalk, Connecticut, United States (USA)10001+19940
Industrial Opportunity Partners, LLCEvanston, Illinois, United States (USA)11-5020051
One Equity PartnersNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-50200111
Senior AerospaceBartlett, Illinois, United States (USA)5001-1000019330


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