IAC acquired by Witmer Public Safety Group

BILLERICA, Mass. – Interstate Arms Corporation (IAC), a leading distributor to the law enforcement, corrections, security and public safety markets, has been purchased by Witmer Public Safety Group, based in Abbottstown, Pa.

Business Transition Services, an M&A firm based in Pembroke, N.H. and Andover, Mass., identified the buyer and coordinated the transaction, representing the sellers. Ken Schaefer and John Howe of BTS began working with owners four years ago to prepare for a transition so founders could retire.

IAC was formed in 1974 by two brothers, Martin and Saul Arnstein. In addition to law enforcement, the company operated a full FFL distribution business.

Witmer has been growing through the years, focusing largely on the public safety community including firefighters, EMTs and paramedics. Its work with the law enforcement community includes operation of Officer Store, which provides a full line of products for those working the front line of law enforcement.

Terms of the private transaction were not disclosed.

“It is a privilege to write a letter of recommendation on behalf of Business Transition Strategies. …As with any family business, negotiations need to be handled delicately and, as with any sale, both parties need to be satisfied with the end result. Quite frankly, without their help, this could not have been achieved. John Howe and Ken Schaefer skillfully analyzed the books and were able to bridge the gap between the sellers’ belief of what the company was worth and its actual worth. Their style is objective, straightforward, thorough and kind in the delivery of their assessment. After the sale was achieved to both parties’ satisfaction, John and Ken were hired to help with the adjustment of the acquisition and the financial health of the company moving forward. I can highly recommend this talented group of experienced business advisors to any company in need of clear and thoughtful company planning and adjustments.”

What our clients are saying...

- Jane Longden

Decora