Wrist Announces Majority Ownership Transition to J.F. Lehman & Company

Wrist, the world’s leading ship and offshore supplier of provisions, stores and spare parts logistics, has announced that the company has been acquired by J.F. Lehman & Company (“JFLCO”) from its previous owner, Altor Fund II (“Altor”). JFLCO is a U.S. private equity firm with deep sector experience in the maritime industry, The transaction marks a new chapter for Wrist as it continues to accelerate growth, lead the digitalization of the marine supply industry. and expand its global footprint.

Under Altor’s ownership, Wrist achieved significant success, enhancing its customer-centric service offerings and strengthening its market presence through 19 acquisitions including recent expansions in Busan, South Korea and four major Brazilian ports in 2024. This strategic growth has played a critical role in consolidating the highly fragmented maritime supply market. Over the past 17 years, Wrist has grown fivefold and is now twice the size of its nearest competitor, solidifying its leadership in the industry.

Wrist has also been at the forefront of digitalizing marine supply, investing in technology to improve transparency, efficiency, and ease of procurement and supply chain for its customers. These innovations are already benefiting some of the world’s largest shipping companies, further strengthening Wrist’s position as a leader in the industry.

“We are thrilled to join forces with JFLCO, whose vision and track record in the maritime industry make them an ideal partner for our next stage of growth,” said Jens Holger Nielsen, Group CEO Wrist. “We are grateful for the support and guidance of Altor over the past 17 years, and we are very pleased that the Altor partnership has reinvested in the business alongside JFLCO.”

JFLCO expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition, citing Wrist’s strong leadership, market position and potential for further expansion and growth. “Wrist is an outstanding fit with our investment strategy. Its strong positioning with blue-chip customers, differentiated logistics capabilities and innovative digital solutions are transforming the maritime supply chain. We are eager to support the company’s growth ambitions and long-term success,” said Will Hanenberg, managing director at J.F. Lehman & Company and the new chairman of Wrist.

“We are incredibly impressed by what the Wrist team has achieved during Altor’s ownership. Throughout our long partnership, they have led the way in their industry by placing innovation and customers first,” said Soren Johansen, partner at Altor and outgoing chairman of Wrist.