Blue River Advises Solve Industrial Motion Group on Three Acquisitions

November 13, 2025 – Blue River Financial Group has advised Solve Industrial Motion Group (“Solve”), provider of high-quality bearings and power transmission solutions, and portfolio company of Audax Private Equity, on three recent add-on acquisitions, completed in the past 60 days. Solve has successfully acquired Power Rite Products, Miller Bearing, and B & B Manufacturing, Inc.

“We are thrilled to celebrate these latest acquisitions with the Solve team”, said Sara Clevenger, Blue River Partner & Buy-Side Practice Leader. “The additions of Power Rite, Miller Bearing, and B&B Manufacturing meaningfully advance Solve’s position as a comprehensive, full-service solutions provider in the bearings and power transmission sector.”

Headquartered in Charlotte, NC, Solve Industrial Motion Group is a leading provider of engineered bearings and power transmission solutions. Solve was formed in 2020 to unite the PTI, IPTCI, and LMS brands. Since its founding, Solve has acquired 5 brands, expanding their offerings in bearings and power transmission. Today, Solve is a full-service solutions provider, offering custom engineered solutions through a broad North American support network.

Based in Boston and San Francisco, Audax Private Equity is a leading middle market investment firm with approximately $19 billion of assets under management, over 270 employees, and 100-plus investment professionals. Since its founding in 1999, the firm has invested in more than 170 platforms and 1,400 add-on acquisitions. Through disciplined Buy & Build approach, across six core industry verticals, Audax helps portfolio companies execute on organic and inorganic growth initiatives that fuel revenue expansion, optimize operations, and significantly increase equity value.

Power Rite is one of the leading suppliers of chain and related power transmission components in North America. Founded in 1985, Power Rite has expertise in manufacturing and application of chains, and strong relationships with OEM and distribution customers.

Ernie Lauber, CEO of Solve, stated “Power Rite’s expertise in chain and strong customer connections will enable us to expand our product offerings and better serve key customers and industries.”

Founded in 1978, Miller Bearing Company is located in Kent, Ohio. The company manufactures a wide variety of conveyor bearings in a 60,000 sq. ft. facility.

“The Miller acquisition fits so well because it expands our manufacturing capabilities and adds a great workforce and facility in Kent,” said Ernie Lauber.

B&B Manufacturing was founded in 1998 and is headquartered in La Porte, Indiana. B&B is North America’s largest synchronous drive pulley manufacturer, specializing in synchronous drive solutions. Products include timing pulleys, synchronous belts, v-belt sheaves, taper bushings, idlers, and roller chain sprocket. B&B also brings with it two recent acquisitions, Diversified Specialties and JJC Associates.

Ernie said, “The B&B acquisition greatly expands Solve’s domestic manufacturing capabilities and allows us to be a full spectrum provider of drive train solutions.

Sara Clevenger added, “Since the beginning of our partnership in 2020, Blue River has been honored to serve as Solve’s trusted buy-side advisor, supporting their continued expansion through strategic acquisitions. It’s been a privilege to support Solve and to witness the dedication, integrity, and innovation that drive their success. We look forward to building on this momentum and continuing to help drive Solve’s growth in the years ahead.”

About Blue River

Blue River Financial Group is a middle market merger and acquisition advisory firm. We assist corporations, private equity groups and individuals in the sale and acquisition of businesses and have completed assignments in multiple business segments. With over 20 years of experience spanning across 50 global industries, Blue River provides a suite of services to middle market clients including corporate development, private equity support, valuations, and transaction consulting, placing a premium on relationship-centered transaction counsel and client focus.

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