Bertram seeks $750 mln for Fund III, acquires two platforms

The San Mateo, Calif.-based firm that currently manages 11 portfolio companies hopes to draw in a total of $750 million in commitments for Bertram Growth Capital III after a busy time on the deal front.

Just last month, Bertram Capital closed two new platform investments: Clarus Glassboards LLC and Sandbox Studio/OneKreate.

Clarus Glassboards, based in Fort Worth, Texas, manufactures glass markerboards and architectural glass. Clarus co-founders Jeremy Rincon and Robby Whites, along with President Andy Philipp, will retain significant ownership in the company, according to a statement on the firm’s website. Bertram said the transaction reflected its strategy of working directly with owners on deals rather than buying companies from other private equity firms.

Sandbox Studio/OneKreate, based in New York, designs and manages digital content. The company will invest in businesses that create and manage digital content for ecommerce customers. The company was formed by combining Sandbox Studio LLC and KSC Studio.

Back in December, Bertram platform company Maxcess International Corp carved out the Guiding Systems unit of Fives North American Cumbustion Inc. Maxcess, which was acquired by Bertram in early 2014, designs and manufactures industrial rolls, converting components and machinery for a variety of industries.

Bertram’s executive team includes Jeff Drazan, managing partner, Ingrid Swenson, managing director and partner, and Partners Ryan Craig, David Hellier, Jared Ruger, Brian Wheeler and Kevin Yamashita.

Bertram did not reply to email from Buyouts seeking comment.