Gardner Trucking, Inc., the largest California-based trucking company, provides specialized regional truckload services, logistics, drayage and warehouse services for bulk and commodity end-to-end markets in the Western U.S.
Client Goals
Gardner had been owned and operated by the Lanting family for more than 30 years. Certain shareholders were interested in growing the business more aggressively while others wanted to pursue interests outside the business, leading to the decision to sell the company. All of the shareholders clearly desired a buyer that would respect Gardner’s culture and brand going forward.
Solution
Sale of 100% of the Company
After a targeted search for high-quality strategic and financial buyers, 555 negotiated and structured a deal with CRST, Inc., a $1.5 billion privately-held trucking company based in Iowa. CRST, also a family-owned company, was well-suited to carry on “The Gardner Way,” while Gardner provided CRST with a new business line and a premier West Coast brand to expand its national footprint.
“555, led by Andre Guardi, was more than an insightful advisor. They were a true partner in the process. My family is very pleased with the outcome, which included activities related to the sale of Gardner, all of which were key to accomplishing our goals.”
- Tom Lanting, President, Gardner Trucking, Inc.