Generational Group Advises Direct Metals, Inc. in its Sale to Trivest Partners in Partnership with First Lexington Capital and DMI CEO Andrew Mullen

DALLAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Generational Group, a leading mergers and acquisitions advisory firm for privately held businesses, is pleased to announce the sale of Direct Metals, Inc. to Trivest Partners in partnership with First Lexington Capital and DMI CEO Andrew Mullen. The acquisition closed August 1, 2025.

Based in Fort Myers, Florida, Direct Metals, Inc. (DMI) is a second generation, family-led designer and supplier of roofing fasteners and accessories. The Company’s proprietary and branded fasteners, including its flagship Panclip product line, have become the gold standard in the fast-growing U.S. metal roofing industry.

Located in Coral Gables, Florida, Trivest Partners is a leading founder-focused private equity firm. Trivest’s investment in DMI represents Fund VII’s eighth platform investment. The partnership will pursue both organic growth and strategic acquisitions, leveraging DMI’s strong brand, exceptional customer relationships, and robust logistical capabilities.

“We are very excited to partner with Andrew and the team at Trivest,” said Bob Bennett of First Lexington. “DMI Direct Metals is a remarkable, founder-led enterprise in a fast-growing segment of the consolidating construction hardware business. We are looking forward to becoming a dominant player in this industry, with the financial backing of Trivest and the leadership of Andrew and his team at DMI Direct Metals.”

“Trivest is proud to partner with founders like Andrew Mullen to transform strong regional leaders into nationally recognized businesses, while preserving the unique culture and customer-first values that made them successful,” said Steve Reynolds, Partner at Trivest.

Andrew Mullen, CEO of DMI, added: “This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for DMI. With Trivest’s expertise and resources, along with Bob Bennett’s proven track record in fasteners, we are well-positioned to expand into new markets, broaden our product offerings, and deliver even greater value to our customers.”

Generational Group Executive Managing Director, M&A, Eastern Region – David Fergusson, and his team led by Senior Managing Director, M&A, Terry Mackin, with the support of Senior Vice President, M&A, Tristan Keeffe successfully closed the deal. Senior Managing Director, Roger Dean and Senior M&A Advisor and Conference Group Leader, Peter Stone established the initial relationship with Direct Metals, Inc.

Ryan Binkley, CEO of Generational Group, stated, “This transaction demonstrates our dedication to creating partnerships that deliver lasting impact. We are excited to bring together two organizations with shared goals and the drive to achieve success together.”

About Generational Group

Generational Group, headquartered in Dallas, TX, is a leading, award winning full-service M&A advisory firm. Generational has over 300 professionals across 16 offices in North America. The firm empowers business owners to unlock the full value of their companies through a comprehensive suite of services—including strategic growth consulting, exit planning education, business valuation, value enhancement strategies, M&A advisory, digital solutions, and wealth management.

Celebrating its 20^th year, Generational has successfully closed over 1,700 transactions and has ranked #1 or #2 in all LSEG league tables for deals valued between $25 million and $1 billion in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

The firm was named 2024 USA Investment Banking Firm of the Year by the Global M&A Network and recognized as Investment Banking Firm of the Year by The M&A Advisor in both 2024 and 2022.