Allison Park Contractors, Inc., a Gibsonia, Pennsylvania-based general contractor specializing in heavy highway construction, has transitioned to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), establishing a long-term ownership structure designed to support the company’s continued growth and preserve its independent future.
Lazear Capital Partners (Lazear) served as the exclusive financial advisor on the ESOP transaction, which was designed to preserve the company’s independence, support long-term continuity, and provide employees with the opportunity to benefit from the company’s future success. The engagement was led by Pittsburgh Market Leader Brian Dobis, with support from Managing Director Scott Wilkie and Associate Abby Harris.
“Construction companies are built by people who take ownership of the work, long before they ever have a stake in the company,” said Dobis. “As construction is the largest industry we serve, we see firsthand how important that sense of ownership is to the success and longevity of these businesses. For Allison Park Contractors, an ESOP creates a natural connection between the people who have helped build the company and its future, while providing a strong foundation for its next chapter.”
Allison Park Contractors has built a strong reputation throughout Western Pennsylvania as a heavy highway construction contractor serving the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and local municipalities. The company has completed a diverse range of projects, including road and bridge construction, site work, underground utilities, and community improvement projects such as trails and park enhancements. Its commitment to safety, honesty, integrity, professionalism, quality, continuous improvement, and innovative solutions has helped establish a strong foundation for its continued growth.
“We weren’t looking for an exit; we were looking for a way forward,” said Dave Shideler, president of Allison Park Contractors. “Employee ownership gives us a path to continue building the company while giving the people who have helped make it successful a stake in its future. Lazear understood that from the beginning and helped us navigate the process with a clear focus on what was best for our company, our employees, and the legacy we’ve built.”
Created by Congress in 1974, ESOPs offer a tax-advantaged way for owners to transition ownership to employees. According to the National Center for Employee Ownership, construction business owners often adopt this exit strategy to prioritize their companies, employees, and the communities they serve.
About Lazear
Lazear Capital Partners is a nationally recognized investment banking and ownership transition advisory firm serving middle-market businesses. The firm specializes in Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs), proprietary Section 1042 tax strategies, and mergers and acquisitions.
Since 1999, Lazear has advised on more than 350 ownership transition transactions and expanded to 19 locations nationwide. Through its multidisciplinary team of CPAs and CFA Charterholders, attorneys, valuation professionals, and transaction advisors, Lazear helps business owners maximize value while preserving their legacy.
To learn more, visit www.lazearcapital.com and follow Lazear on LinkedIn.
Media Contact
Katherine Koon
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kk@lazearcapital.com
614-502-1411
