News & Trends

Dallas-based Hall Technologies Acquired by Native-American-owned Gun Lake Investments

Earlier this month, Gun Lake Investments (GLI) increased its majority share of Dallas-based AV technology manufacturer Hall Technologies and assumed management control. GLI’s CEO, Monica King will assume the role of Chairwoman for the company. While acquisitions are not unusual in the corporate landscape, this one was unique.

"Much of the mergers and acquisitions activity in the digital signage and pro AV sectors has involved the consolidation of competing companies or investments by private equity companies," said Sixteen-Nine's Dave Haynes. "So it’s an interesting twist to see a manufacturer acquired by the economic development arm of a Michigan-area Indian band."

GLI is a 100% Tribally-owned non-gaming entity of the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians committed to diversity and inclusion and with a mission to put together a community of minority-owned businesses. Grand Rapids' iconic McKay Tower, Noonday Market, and Subway restaurants are noteworthy in their growing portfolio of investments.

"The size of the AV industry is key for AVIXA," remarks Sean Wargo, Senior Director of Market Intelligence for AVIXA. "A rising tide—signaled by the private equity money coming in and forming these large integrators—lifts our boat too!"

Wargo believes growth, coupled with the disruptions of the past two years, encourages new entrants in start-ups or businesses shifting from adjacent industries (IT or Security), thereby filling the bottom of the pyramid even as consolidation hits the top.

"The acquisition of Hall Technologies is yet another example of our industry's natural evolution and diversification," states Wargo. "We’re continually seeking new ways to serve the marketplace’s changing needs by offering new services and products, including new member benefits, events, training, councils, research, and community platforms. Mergers and acquisition activity is another change driving those efforts."

For more on this, read Hall Technologies’ press release here.