Atar Capital Acquires Universal Lighting and Douglas Lighting Controls from Panasonic

LDS ULT Douglas 400

March 22, 2021

Atar Capital, a Los Angeles-based global private investment firm, announced today it has completed the acquisition of Universal Lighting Technologies and Douglas Lighting Controls from parent company, Panasonic Corporation. 

Universal Lighting Technologies manufactures and markets innovative LED lighting solutions for the commercial market with solutions that range from LED upgrades and retrofits to connected lighting solutions and IoT digital services. Douglas Lighting Controls develops advanced control systems and end-to-end energy-efficient digital lighting control solutions for commercial buildings, campuses and sports complexes. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

Through the change of ownership, the businesses will be renamed Universal Douglas Lighting Americas, Inc. and will operate as one company to address the needs of the market for a broader and more integrated suite of products and solutions.

This is Atar Capital’s seventh platform acquisition in just over four years. Commenting on this latest acquisition, Cyrus Nikou, founder and managing partner of Atar Capital, said, “Commercial lighting is an industry that is rapidly evolving with exciting new technology that is transforming the future of lighting and how we view it and use it. The acquisition of these two highly respected companies offers a huge opportunity for us to support greater innovation and growth in this industry. We are excited to complete this transaction and look forward to continuing to build upon the success of both companies.”

Robert Lezec, senior managing director at Atar, added, “The commercial lighting industry is in the midst of a significant transformation as cost-efficient LED light sources are now being supplemented by increasingly sophisticated controls, sensors and networking functionalities. Smart IoT lighting not only helps to drive incremental cost savings, but it also provides a platform for many valuable features within commercial spaces, including data collection and tracking, among others. We see numerous opportunities for these companies to capitalize on this industry-wide trend and we are excited once again to be at the heart of where technology meets sustainability.”

Through this acquisition, Atar confirms the position of Ty Anderson as chief executive officer of both companies. “With this acquisition we have the opportunity to significantly enhance our ability to continue to create an exciting future for the field of commercial lighting. Our relationship with Atar Capital will give us the support needed to drive further innovation in the development of lighting solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers,” said Anderson.

Nikou led the Atar investment team that also included Senior Managing Director Lezec, Managing Directors Vijay Mony and Stanley Huang, Director T.J. McCaffrey and Senior Associate Roman Zelinsky. Dykema provided legal counsel to Atar Capital. FGI Finance provided financing and GCA Advisors was the sell-side investment bank.

Source

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • Leviton| Viscor Announces Julian Verrall as New Director of Engineering & Product Management

    Leviton|Viscor Announces Julian Verrall as New Director of Engineering & Product Management

    Leviton|Viscor is pleased to announce the appointment of Julian Verrall as their new Director of Engineering and Product Management, effective immediately. With over 13 years of experience in engineering and product management, Julian has successfully led design and new product development initiatives, demonstrating strong leadership and technical expertise. His extensive knowledge and strategic vision will… Read More…

  • Magic Lite Announces New Partnership with Prolux Lighting - Representation

    Magic Lite Announces New Partnership with Prolux Lighting

    Magic Lite is thrilled to officially join forces with the amazing team at Prolux Lighting & Controls with a new representation agreement! Thank you for the warm welcome! The Magic Lite team is excited to be part of Prolux’s strong lineup of trusted lighting brands. From kitchens to commercial projects, Magic Lite can’t wait to… Read More…


Design

  • Magic Lite: How 5CCT Ultra-Thin Recessed Ceiling Lights Deliver Maximum ROI

    Magic Lite: How 5CCT Ultra-Thin Recessed Ceiling Lights Deliver Maximum ROI

    Lighting is one of the most important aspects of any commercial or residential project, yet it is often overlooked when calculating long-term return on investment (ROI). 5CCT ultra-thin recessed ceiling lights have emerged as a game-changer, offering superior efficiency, lower installation costs, and long-term financial savings for contractors, architects, and real estate developers. Unlike traditional recessed fixtures,… Read More…

  • Artika: Spring Bathroom Lighting Upgrades for a Refreshed Space

    Artika: Spring Bathroom Lighting Upgrades for a Refreshed Space

    Refresh and revitalize your bathroom lighting. Spring brings with it an opportunity to breathe new life into our homes, starting with the spaces we use the most. The bathroom plays a crucial role in our routine, from energizing showers in the morning to relaxing baths at night. Therefore, consider upgrading your bathroom lighting to transform… Read More…


New Products

  • Zaneen: Adamas Luminaire

    Zaneen: Adamas Luminaire

    Adamas is a surface and suspension light that can elevate a space with its radiant charm. This exquisite lighting fixture is not just an illumination source; it’s an eye-catching centerpiece that adds a touch of elegance to any room. Adamas takes its inspiration from the timeless beauty of diamonds. Its multifaceted design captures and reflects light… Read More…

  • JDRF Electromag: Autonomy Sensor – Smart Lighting

    JDRF Electromag: Autonomy Sensor – Smart Lighting

    The Autonomy Sensor is an integrated control and management device that self-organizes, configures, and optimizes an advanced Smart Lighting System. A set of Autonomy Sensors collaborate to provision a secure wireless mesh network, establish Area membership based on physical co-location, and configure motion and daylight groups through the analysis of motion patterns and daylight distribution… Read More…