Eight Quarter Advisors (EQA) proudly served as the exclusive sell-side advisor for Ozark Steel Fabricators, Inc. in its acquisition by Dallas-based private investment firm Dakota Holdings, LLC. This transaction strengthens Dakota Holdings’ platform of structural steel fabricators and erectors, anchored by Staley Steel, and positions the companies for strategic growth across the Central and Midwestern U.S.
A Legacy of Excellence
Founded in 1962, Ozark Steel has built a strong reputation as a trusted structural steel fabricator in the Midwest, specializing in data storage, industrial, and healthcare construction projects. Beyond fabrication, Ozark Steel offers hands-on problem-solving support to developers and contractors, a service that aligns seamlessly with Staley Steel’s design/build and value engineering expertise.
This partnership leverages Ozark Steel’s commitment to delivering high-quality solutions with Dakota Holdings’ strategic growth capabilities and connections to Fortune 500 developers and project owners nationwide.
Leadership Reflections
“The M&A process is much more complex than we had expected, but the EQA team provided the expertise and experience necessary to get us across the finish line successfully,” said Jimmy Hand, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Ozark Steel.
Chris Lueth, Managing Director at EQA, added, “The acquisition of Ozark Steel by Dakota Holdings exemplifies the power of strategic partnerships in positioning businesses for long-term growth. We are honored to have supported the Ozark Steel team in this transaction and are confident that the combined resources of Dakota Holdings and Staley Steel will drive continued success.”
About the Companies
Eight Quarter Advisors (EQA)
EQA is a Denver and Boston-based M&A advisory firm specializing in lower middle-market transactions. EQA provides sophisticated advisory services to scalable companies that may not align with traditional investment banks’ client profiles, bridging expertise gaps and unlocking growth opportunities for its clients.
Ozark Steel Fabricators, Inc.
With a six-decade legacy, Ozark Steel is a prominent name in the Midwestern construction industry, delivering reliable and complex structural steel solutions to contractors in markets like St. Louis and Chicago. Headquartered in Farmington, Missouri, Ozark Steel is known for its commitment to quality, timely project completion, and client satisfaction.
Dakota Holdings, LLC
Dakota Holdings is a private investment firm focused on long-term growth in the industrial manufacturing sector. Based in Dallas, Texas, the firm prioritizes organic growth and operational efficiency within its portfolio companies, fostering sustained success and market leadership.
This acquisition marks a significant milestone for all parties involved, further advancing the capabilities of Ozark Steel and Dakota Holdings in serving the construction industry.
