Charlottetown-based auto retailer sold business to its employee Jason Sheppard
Deal AnnouncementLocal used vehicle, parts, and service center Phillips Auto Sales Limited has transitioned ownership to its committed employee, Jason Sheppard

Supporting a local legacy in Canadian manufacturing
Located in Beamsville, ON, OutFront Portable Solutions (OutFront) is a manufacturer of seasonal garden centers, merchandising displays, and accessories for the horticulture industry. From humble beginnings in 1997, President and Founder Tony Van Es built the company into the industry leader it is today, serving major retailers across Canada and the US.
As a trusted partner to many loyal, long-time customers, OutFront boasts a large product and service offering including in-house design, and fabricating and assembly, as well as set-up, take-down, and storage, across three product lines: garden centres, temporary fencing, and engineered steel structures with fabric coverings.
After more than two decades of building his legacy, Tony turned his mind to succession planning and decided the time was right to sell his business, allowing him to focus on his other interests and hobbies. He approached our M&A team for support with achieving his goals and finding a buyer that aligned with his values. We helped OutFront share its story with a broad selection of potential candidates, assisted with identifying the right strategic buyer, and collaborated with our Tax team. Working alongside our advisors, OutFront were able to negotiate and structure a transaction that supported the shared values and vision of both parties.
The right strategic buyer was found in B. A. Loney Services, a full-service property maintenance, landscape, and service contractor also based in Beamsville, ON and serving the Niagara region. They successfully acquired OutFront Portable Solutions, along with its subsidiary business units, XL Shelter and Easy Fence. This transaction represents a significant strategic milestone for Tony Van Es and his family.

Client
OutFront Portable Solutions
Transaction type
Divestiture
Services provided
M&A
Sector
Manufacturing
Close date
December, 2024
Local used vehicle, parts, and service center Phillips Auto Sales Limited has transitioned ownership to its committed employee, Jason Sheppard
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