Balance Point, Swift Anchor make strategic investment in Essential Turbines

In a significant move in the aerospace sector, Balance Point Capital Advisors, LLC, alongside its affiliated funds Balance Point Capital Partners V, L.P., and Balance Point Capital Partners VI, L.P., has announced a substantial investment in Essential Turbines Inc. (ETI). This investment, a blend of debt and equity, was executed in collaboration with Swift Anchor Holdings, a renowned private equity firm. The financial details of the transaction, however, have not been disclosed.

Essential Turbines Inc., a veteran in the Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) industry for aircraft engines, is recognized for its specialization in the Rolls-Royce M250 and RR300 engines. These engines are crucial components of many leading helicopters worldwide. With a legacy spanning 30 years, ETI prides itself on its commitment to performance, quality, and safety across various aerospace markets.

The strategic partnership aims to bolster ETI’s role as a Rolls Royce FIRST Network partner and to expand its capabilities further. Gannon Gambeski, a partner at Swift Anchor with extensive operational expertise, will step in as the new CEO of Essential Turbines. This leadership change aligns with Swift Anchor’s proactive and hands-on management style, promising a new chapter of growth and development for ETI.

Michael E. Guntner Jr., the outgoing CEO and President of ETI, will continue to influence the company’s future, retaining a minority ownership and serving as a board member and senior advisor. “Partnering with Swift Anchor and Balance Point marks a thrilling new phase for ETI’s growth. Their long-term, mission-driven outlook and owner-operator mentality are perfectly aligned with our goals,” said Guntner. “This partnership ensures that our team, customers, and partners will benefit significantly from enhanced resources and expertise.”

Elias Lebovits, Managing Partner and Founder of Swift Anchor, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership. “Mike and his team have built a market-leading MRO with an outstanding reputation. We are excited to enhance ETI’s commitment to delivering top-notch quality and service while ensuring a rewarding work environment for our employees as we steer the company towards further growth,” said Lebovits.

Seth Alvord, Managing Partner at Balance Point, echoed this sentiment, highlighting ETI’s potential for leveraging its established operational strategies under Guntner’s 30-year tenure, alongside exploring new avenues to support its expanding customer base.

ETI, with its headquarters in Montreal and additional facilities in Vancouver and Phoenix, serves a diverse clientele spanning commercial, government, and military sectors. The company specializes not only in Rolls Royce engine models but also in pure-thrust engine modules, components, and accessories, affirming its crucial role in the aerospace industry.