As the Omicron variant spreads, and workers attempt to return to the office, HVAC testing has come to the top of mind for businesses and buyers. Any service that can help improve the safety of people is in high demand now.

Private investment firm Sunny River Management has recently invested in Palmetto Air & Water Balance. The Greenville, South Carolina-based target, founded in 1989, offers HVAC testing, adjusting, and balancing services to healthcare and educational facilities along with other government and commercial buildings. Sunny River said it will seek add-on acquisitions for Palmetto.

“Proper ventilation in commercial buildings is more top-of-mind than ever, and Palmetto is well-positioned to capitalize on this increased focus on safe and efficient indoor environments,” says Sunny River managing partner John Cote.

Although it remains unclear what kind of future impact the Omicron variant will have, companies still need to be prepared as people return to the office. Workforce management is one of the topics that Mergers & Acquisitions is covering for the January/February print edition.

Sunny River invests in businesses that have up to $100 million in revenue and $20 million in Ebitda. The firm has offices in Austin and Atlanta. Some of its other investments include: industrials inspection and testing company Industrial Inspection & Analysis; medical imaging business Rezolut; and fire safety provider Fire Safety and Protection.

Investing in safety is a good idea right now.

– Demitri Diakantonis