River Associates sells Trident Solutions to Align Capital Partners

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn., Sept. 3, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- River Associates Investments, a private equity firm based in Chattanooga, Tennessee, has announced the successful sale of Trident Solutions to Align Capital Partners. The transaction closed on August 31, 2026, marking the firm’s third exit of the year.

Trident Solutions, headquartered in Plano, Texas, is a leading provider of safety marking, identification, and damage prevention solutions for various industries, including utility, infrastructure, construction, industrial, and OEM sectors. The company’s portfolio includes trusted brands such as Presco, Pro-Line Safety Products, William Frick & Company, Rhino Marking & Protection Systems, LEM Products, and Uticom Systems. These brands offer a wide range of products, including tracer wire, marking posts, stake flags, markers, signs, tags, tape, labels, and engineered films designed to protect workers, the public, and critical infrastructure.

Blair Cook, CEO of Trident, expressed gratitude for River Associates' partnership. "River Associates brought relevant experience and valuable resources to our team," Cook said. "They trusted our management to lead the company, and together we scaled the business and positioned Trident for future growth. We are proud of the progress we've made during our partnership."

Blake Lewis, a principal at River Associates, echoed Cook's sentiments. "The management team at Trident integrated five acquisitions, consolidated facilities, and implemented operational improvements, all while maintaining a focus on the customer," Lewis noted. "Their dedication and hard work contributed significantly to Trident’s strong market position."

Patten Pettway, along with Blake Lewis, Jacob Poe, and Matt McMahan, assisted in the transaction. Baird served as the financial advisor, and Holland & Knight LLP provided legal counsel to both River Associates and Trident. ACP was advised by Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP.

The sale of Trident Solutions is part of River Associates' ongoing strategy to invest in and exit lower middle market companies. The firm, which has been active in the private equity space for over 35 years, has completed more than 130 transactions since its founding in 1989. River Associates is currently investing its eighth fund, with $345 million of committed capital.

Under River Associates' ownership, Trident Solutions demonstrated significant growth and operational improvements, positioning it well for future success. Both companies are optimistic about Trident’s continued growth and innovation in the safety marking and identification market.