Acquisition of AAI by Saothair Capital Partners Finalized
Fire and Life Safety Solutions Company AAI Acquired by Saothair Capital Partners
AAI (Air Products and Controls), a renowned fire and life safety detection solutions company based in Auburn Hills, Michigan, has been acquired by Saothair Capital Partners. The acquisition was finalized on July 29, 2025.
AAI, with over 40 years of industry experience, has built a strong reputation for new product development and deep expertise in regulatory compliance and technical innovation in fire and life safety systems. The company specializes in wireless smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors for residential security systems and commercial duct smoke and CO detectors.
The acquisition by Saothair Capital Partners is expected to strengthen AAI’s market position and accelerate growth. Although the financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, Saothair’s investment focus and long-term mindset, operational expertise, and commitment to supporting growth are expected to help AAI achieve its strategic initiatives.
Kaid Cousineau, CEO of AAI, expressed pride in the company's accomplishments under its previous owner, Halma Holdings, and excitement about partnering with Saothair. Cousineau acknowledged Halma's partnership throughout the acquisition process and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to acquire AAI.
Richard Lozyniak, Co-founder and Operating Partner of Saothair, expressed enthusiasm about fostering a culture of continuous improvement, strengthening the customer experience, and building upon AAI's commitment to operational excellence.
Following the acquisition, AAI will be renamed Air Products and Controls (APC). All AAI products are designed to meet stringent regulatory codes and standards. The company's products are sold directly to residential security system OEMs, HVAC and fire system OEMs, and commercial distributors.
McGuireWoods provided legal counsel to Saothair on the transaction, while Nixon Peabody provided legal counsel to Halma, and Houlihan Lokey served as financial advisor. Kevin Madden, Co-founder and Managing Partner of Saothair, expressed excitement about partnering with AAI's CEO Kaid Cousineau and the senior leadership team.
In summary, AAI, with its extensive industry experience and commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, has been acquired by Saothair Capital Partners. The acquisition is expected to strengthen AAI’s market position and accelerate growth. The company will continue to design and manufacture fire and life safety detection solutions, meeting stringent regulatory codes and standards.
The acquisition by private equity firm Saothair Capital Partners signifies a shift in ownership for AAI, a leading manufacturer of fire and life safety detection solutions. The financial investment from Saothair is anticipated to bolster AAI's presence in the industry and accelerate business growth.
