Lazear Capital Partners (Lazear) is pleased to announce it served as the exclusive financial advisor to ACI Mechanical & HVAC Sales (ACI), a leading commercial HVAC company based in Seattle, Washington, in its transition to 100% employee ownership through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
Founded in 1985, ACI has spent 40 years delivering trusted, energy-efficient HVAC solutions across the Pacific Northwest. By becoming employee-owned, ACI reinforces its commitment to its team, preserves leadership and operations, and ensures stability for customers and vendors. The ESOP positions the company for long-term growth while deepening its connection to the communities it serves.
“Celebrating 40 years in business alongside our newly named employee-owners makes this milestone even more special,” said Keith Glasch, President of ACI Mechanical & HVAC Sales. “An ESOP is our way of showing the people who have helped build this company that they aren’t just part of ACI, they are ACI. We want to keep that spirit alive, honor the work that has brought us here, and build a future that stays true to who we are.”
Steve Deis, Managing Director at Lazear Capital Partners, who served as ACI’s financial advisor, added: “ACI is built on people, expertise, and relationships, and that is exactly what makes it such a perfect fit for an ESOP. This strategy keeps the team at the heart of the business, protects the culture they have worked so hard to cultivate, and ensures continuity for customers and vendors across the country.”
This transaction comes as ESOPs continue to grow in popularity, with Washington state now home to 100+ ESOP companies, reflecting a regional trend toward employee ownership and team-focused business models.
About Lazear
Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Columbus, OH, with a nationwide presence, Lazear is a premier middle-market advisory firm specializing in business ownership transitions through ESOPs, M&A, and capital formation. By providing tailored exit strategies and a proprietary 1042 tax solution, Lazear helps business owners maximize wealth and preserve their legacy.
To learn more, visit www.lazearcapital.com and follow Lazear on LinkedIn.
Media Contact
Katherine Koon
Marketing Director
kk@lazearcapital.com
614-502-1411
