Family-Owned Firm Continues Manufacturing Expansion with Acquisition of Precision Metal Stamping Leader
HIGH POINT, N.C. (July 13, 2026) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a U.S.-based, family‑owned firm, today announced the acquisition of Allred Metal Stamping Works (“Allred”), a privately held U.S. manufacturing company specializing in custom metal stamping and fabrication.
Headquartered in High Point, North Carolina, Allred has built a decades-long reputation for precision, reliability, and customer loyalty across a broad range of industrial markets.
Founded in 1946, Allred began as a metal stamping supplier to the furniture industry—a cornerstone of the High Point region—before diversifying into a multi-industry supplier serving automotive, appliances, medical equipment, hand and power tools, sporting goods, fitness equipment, and more. The company has expanded its facilities nine times over its history, reflecting sustained demand and consistent operational growth.
Allred offers end-to-end production capabilities, including metal stamping, tool and die design and fabrication, and finishing services. The company’s in-house tooling capabilities and full-service model distinguish it from commodity stamping operations, enabling custom, high-volume production.
“This investment was a natural fit for HF Companies,” said Geoff Hoffmann, CEO of HF Companies’ private equity arm. “Allred is a high-quality, family-influenced manufacturer with a strong legacy, consistent growth, and a loyal customer base that has endured through changing market conditions. We’re thrilled to welcome Mickey and the Allred team to the HF family and look forward to supporting their continued success.”
“This is a defining moment for Allred and our future,” said Mickey James, CEO of Allred. “Hoffmann’s strong manufacturing platform and deep commitment to each company’s customers and employees made it clear they are the ideal partner for our next chapter.”
To explore more of Allred’s capabilities, visit www.allredmetal.com.
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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of more than 200 brands, employing more than 27,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.
For More Information: [email protected]
Combination strengthens in-house metal fabrication and finishing capabilities for SWFL customers
NAPLES (July 8, 2026) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a U.S.-based, family‑owned firm, today announced the acquisition of Naples Powder Coating, Collier County’s largest production powder coating facility, and its integration into Sunmaster of Naples (“Sunmaster”), HF Companies’ Naples-based manufacturer of custom awnings, ornamental metal products, and storm protection systems since 1969.
Naples Powder Coating serves customers across marine, automotive, architectural, and residential markets — from T-tops and rod holders to gates, railings, and patio furniture. Led by husband-wife duo Audrey and Kyle Hogg, the company is known for its state-of-the-art Nordson equipment and for being home to Collier County’s largest curing oven. It also recently added in-house sand blasting on raw materials, a natural upstream complement to its powder coating work.
“Today’s news of our acquisition of Naples Powder Coating underscores our deep commitment to Naples and its business scene,” said David Hoffmann, Chairman & Founder of HF Companies. “There’s a real void in the market for a reliable, high-end powder coating partner, and pairing that capability with a brand of Sunmaster’s quality is exactly how we plan to fill it.”
Naples Powder Coating’s capabilities are highly complementary to Sunmaster’s existing metal fabrication business, which produces awnings, custom railings, staircases, gates, fences, pergolas, and the Titan Screen® line of motorized retractable screens. Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate has also acquired the entire building housing the powder coating operation — of which Naples Powder Coating currently occupies only one-third — signaling a commitment to expanding coating capacity and delivering a complete, full-service offering to existing customers and new ones alike.
“Naples Powder Coating fills a gap we’ve long wanted to close. Bringing finishing under our umbrella means faster turnaround and tighter quality control for every piece of metal that leaves our shop — and for outside customers, too,” said John Wilkinson, CEO of Sunmaster. “Our plans include updating outdated equipment and reviewing all procedures to ensure they’re in line with our standard of quality. As an end user for over 50 years, we know what our customers expect, and making that our No. 1 priority is exactly how we’ll approach this new addition to the Hoffmann portfolio.”
HF Companies’ Naples portfolio spans more than 30 local companies, from Sunmaster to Naples Princess to The Augusta Clothing Company, Jerri Hoffmann’s new fashion boutique on 5th Avenue South. The family’s Midwest dairy business, Oberweis, is also coming to Southwest Florida, with its first location opening in Cape Coral in 2027.
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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of more than 200 brands, employing more than 27,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.
ST. LOUIS (June 29, 2026) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”) today announced the proposed acquisition of six radio brands in St. Louis from Audacy, Inc. (“Audacy”), including KMOX (1120 AM / 104.1 FM), widely known as the “Trusted Voice of St. Louis.” The transaction remains subject to FCC approval.
“This is a deliberate step to accelerate the expansion of our media platform and establish it as one of the largest print and digital news organizations in the United States,” said David Hoffmann, Founder and Chairman of HF Companies. “We are building a scaled, multi-platform network that combines print, digital, and broadcast to deliver trusted journalism and meaningful community connection. Talk radio is a natural extension of that vision and a powerful driver of our long-term growth.”
Hoffmann’s media portfolio has expanded significantly, establishing a broad, coast-to-coast presence. Collectively, his media assets now operate in 30 states, producing 154 newspapers in 154 cities. The addition of the six radio brands marks his initial expansion into broadcast, with plans for continued growth in the sector.
Today, the portfolio operates under two primary platforms: Lee Enterprises (Nasdaq: LEE), where Hoffmann serves as Chairman and holds a controlling stake, and Hoffmann Media Group.
- Lee Enterprises is a leading provider of local news and information and a major subscription and advertising platform, with daily and weekly newspapers and rapidly expanding digital products serving 114 markets across 25 states.
- Hoffmann Media Group complements this scale with a portfolio of 40 publications across six states, focused on delivering trusted reporting, compelling storytelling, and hyperlocal content that reflects the unique character of the communities it serves.
Hoffmann added, “With our planned acquisitions, combined with our existing portfolio of 154 newspapers and our expansion into radio, we expect to become the second-largest media company in the United States by year-end.”
The Audacy deal comes at a pivotal moment for Hoffmann’s media portfolio. Last month, Hoffmann entered into a management agreement with Lee Enterprises to bring Hoffmann Media Group under the Lee umbrella, effectively aligning and integrating the two platforms.
As part of Audacy’s portfolio, KMOX has a long and storied history in sports broadcasting and serves as the flagship station for both the St. Louis Cardinals; KYKY broadcasts St. Louis City SC games. As part of the proposed transaction, Hoffmann has also brought back Becky Domyan as Market President for the Greater St. Louis brands.
Domyan was previously with Audacy, serving as SVP/Market Manager of Audacy St. Louis and Wichita. During her tenure, she earned recognition as a Missouri Athletic Club “Woman of Distinction” and KMOX received a National Murrow Award for News Excellence. In 2025, during KMOX’s 100th anniversary year, she led the expansion of the station onto FM distribution. She also successfully negotiated and secured the company’s sports play-by-play contracts that are still in place today, including the partnerships with the St. Louis Cardinals and St. Louis City SC.
Hoffmann’s acquisition includes the following stations:
- 104.1 FM KMOX (KMOX-FM/KMOX-AM) – News/Talk
- 97.1 FM Talk (KFTK-FM) – News/Talk
- Y98 (KYKY-FM) – Hot Adult Contemporary
- 102.5 KEZK (KEZK-FM) – Adult Contemporary
- 96.3 R&B (WFUN-FM) – Urban Adult Contemporary
- Hot 98.7 (WHHL-FM) – Hip-Hop/R&B
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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of more than 200 brands, employing more than 27,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.
About Audacy:
Audacy is a leading audio content and entertainment company. As champions of audio, we connect with people in the moments that matter — delivering trusted local news, passionate sports and your favorite music across 220+ radio stations, premium podcasts, live events and digital experiences that reach more than 200 million listeners every month.
We create compelling content, foster deeply engaged audiences and deliver outcomes that matter for advertisers. Learn more at www.audacyinc.com and join the conversation on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram.
For More Information: [email protected]; [email protected]
Family-Owned Firm Officially Adding Iconic NHL Franchise to Growing Portfolio
PITTSBURGH/CHICAGO (June 23, 2026) — Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), the U.S.-based family-owned firm, today announced it has received unanimous approval from the NHL Board of Governors to acquire the Pittsburgh Penguins, one of the National Hockey League’s most storied and celebrated franchises. The transaction is expected to close imminently; financial terms were not disclosed.
Geoff Hoffmann, CEO of HF Companies’ Private Equity arm will serve as Governor. Greg Hoffmann, CEO of the firm’s Real Estate arm; Kyle Dubas, General Manager & President of Hockey Operations of the Pittsburgh Penguins; and David Hoffmann, Founder & Chairman of HF Companies, will each serve as Alternate Governors.
“This is a defining moment for our family,” said Geoff Hoffmann, incoming Governor of the Pittsburgh Penguins. “The Penguins represent everything Hoffmann Family of Companies stands for — community, excellence and long-term thinking. We look forward to building on the team’s success by providing support and resources to both Kyle Dubas and the hockey operations team, as well as the established leadership group on the business side. We’re proud to represent this storied franchise and are eager to become an active, invested part of the Pittsburgh community.”
The acquisition marks HF Companies’ most significant investment to date and deepens an already-growing presence in Western Pennsylvania. The firm owns Viking Plastics, headquartered in Corry, Pennsylvania, and DHR Global, a leading executive search firm headquartered in Chicago with offices in both Pittsburgh and Philadelphia.
Founded in 1989 by family patriarch David Hoffmann, HF Companies has grown into a global enterprise spanning more than 200 brands across 400 locations in 30 countries, employing more than 27,000 people. With primary hubs in Chicago, Naples and St. Louis, the firm has completed five acquisitions in the current calendar year, a pace that reflects its ambition and financial strength.
Hockey isn’t new to the Hoffmann family — it’s personal. They also own the Florida Everblades, the five-time Kelly Cup champions competing in the ECHL. In 2022, Geoff and his wife Megan founded Type 1 Timer Hockey, the only hockey camp in the United States designed specifically for youth living with Type 1 diabetes. Inspired by their son Henry’s diagnosis at age seven, the camp has grown from 40 to nearly 150 campers and is held annually at Hertz Arena, home of the Everblades.
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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 200 global brands and employs 27,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.
For More Information: Rachel Berkowitz, [email protected] | Jennifer Bullano Ridgley, [email protected]
MILWAUKEE / CHICAGO (June 15, 2026) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”) today announced its acquisition of Cedar Crest Ice Cream (“Cedar Crest”), an iconic, multi-generational dairy business with deep roots across the Midwest. Headquartered in Winnetka, Illinois, HF Companies also owns Oberweis Dairy—another beloved regional brand known for its quality and heritage.
Led for more than 50 years by the Kohlwey brothers—Ken, Robert, Bill, and Tim—the business will remain in family stewardship through the Hoffmann family. As part of the transaction, Renato DePaolis, CEO of Oberweis Dairy, will assume leadership of Cedar Crest, bringing together two heritage brands with longstanding reputations for quality.
“It’s not lost on me that Cedar Crest is a 50-year-old brand and Oberweis is approaching its 100th anniversary serving Midwest communities and families,” said DePaolis. “Together, we represent more than 150 years of rich ice cream history, which is a legacy that is both meaningful and worth celebrating as we look to the future.”
“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve built,” said Ken Kohlwey. “My brothers and I wouldn’t hand over the reins to just anyone. When we saw what the Hoffmann family has accomplished with Oberweis in such a short time, we knew we could trust them to continue to grow our beloved business as we enter the sweetest chapter in our lives: Retirement.”
Founded in 1976 and headquartered in Cedarburg, Wisconsin, Cedar Crest is deeply rooted in a generational dairy tradition that began with the Kohlwey family’s parents. Its manufacturing plant and the Cedar Crest Ice Cream Parlor—both located in Manitowoc, Wisconsin—have become landmark destinations for locals and visitors alike.
Today, Cedar Crest offers a broad portfolio of frozen desserts, including more than 80 ice cream flavors, 10 custard varieties, six sherbets, and three dairy-free sorbets. Oberweis has experienced significant growth under Hoffmann ownership, and Cedar Crest represents another opportunity to continue expanding within the category.
HF Companies will continue to operate Cedar Crest and Oberweis as distinct brands under its broader portfolio. For more information, please visit their respective websites: cedarcresticecream.com and oberweis.com.
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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of more than 200 brands, employing more than 27,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.
For More Information: [email protected]
Latest addition to Hoffmann family complements existing luxury travel brands in portfolio
NEW YORK/DUBLIN (May 4, 2026) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a family-owned private equity firm based in the United States, today announced the planned acquisition of SteamLine Luggage (“SteamLine”), a global luxury luggage brand headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, known for its vintage‑inspired designs, exceptional craftsmanship, and premium materials.
Founded in 2008 by CEO Sara Banks, SteamLine Luggage was born from a simple but powerful insight: luggage should be both beautiful and exceptionally well‑made. After extensive global travel, Banks set out to reintroduce elegance to modern journeys—creating suitcases that function not only as travel essentials, but as personal accessories reflective of each traveler’s style. What began as four thoughtfully designed, vintage‑inspired pieces has grown into a full portfolio of meticulously crafted collections beloved by travelers worldwide.
SteamLine has earned a devoted following among influencers and celebrities alike, with supporters including Margot Robbie and Reese Witherspoon, and has become a standout brand at the intersection of fashion, function, and nostalgia.
“I love this brand,” said David Hoffmann, Founder and Chairman of Hoffmann Family of Companies. “At Hoffmann, we invest in quality—whether that’s people, brands, products, or services. SteamLine embodies that philosophy in a very tangible way, and that makes it especially meaningful to us.”
“What impressed us most about SteamLine is the strength of the brand and the opportunity to scale it thoughtfully,” said Mark Russell, CEO of Linstol, another Hoffmann Family of Companies portfolio business. “Sara has built an exceptional product, and we’re excited to help support its next chapter as part of the Hoffmann family.”
SteamLine Luggage products are also available at The Augusta Clothing Company’s Naples location, 601 5th Avenue South, Naples, Florida. To learn more, visit https://steamlineluggage.com.

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of more than 200 brands, employing more than 26,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.
For More Information: [email protected]
Newest acquisition strengthens family office’s hospitality and entertainment platform
CHICAGO/MEMPHIS (May 1, 2026) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), a family-owned private equity firm based in the United States, is pleased to announce the acquisition of LEO Events (“LEO”), a leading event agency serving the experiential industry.
Founded in 2012, LEO Events has grown from a boutique firm in Memphis, Tennessee, into one of the top event agencies in North America. The company is known for its fresh, fearless creativity, inventive execution, and deeply collaborative approach, delivering high-impact experiential events for some of the world’s most recognizable brands, executives, and organizations. Today, the agency employs more than 100 full-time professionals, operates nationwide, and maintains key offices in Memphis, Nashville, and Chattanooga, Tennessee, along with a presence in Asheville, North Carolina.
Principals Cindy Brewer, Kent Underwood, and Kevin Brewer will retain minority equity interest, and Kent Underwood and Kevin Brewer will lead day-to-day operations as Co-CEOs.
“After more than 13 years of building LEO alongside my co-founders, I know there’s no better partner than Hoffmann Family of Companies to take us to the next level,” said Cindy Brewer. “We’re confident this partnership will accelerate our growth while preserving the culture and creativity that define who we are.”
“Cindy, Kevin, Kent, and their team have built a remarkable company with an exceptional reputation for creativity, execution, and client service,” said Geoff Hoffmann, CEO of HF Companies’ private equity arm. “LEO expands our footprint into new geographies and brings new, premier capabilities we’ve been seeking for our portfolio. We’re thrilled about what we can accomplish together.”
“This is an exciting moment for us as entrepreneurs – and for our entire team,” added Kent Underwood. “With Hoffmann Family of Companies as our partner, we remain focused on our clients, our people, and the culture that makes LEO truly special.”
LEO scales a full suite of services—including Strategy, Creative, Design, Experiential, Entertainment, Meetings, Technology, Operations, Festivals & Public Events, and Activations—to deliver top-tier programs for clients such as AutoZone, Domino’s, Hilton, MassMutual, PGA of America, Sherwin-Williams, and Walmart. Beyond client work, LEO is committed to employee, industry, and community engagement in many ways, including its LEO Gives initiative, which supports communities through volunteering, in-kind contributions, and partnerships, and its LEO Fellows talent development program with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
With the addition of LEO, HF Companies continues to grow and elevate its Hospitality & Entertainment vertical, particularly building on the success of other events-focused holdings such as Colorado-based RMC and Southwest Florida–headquartered GlobalWorks. This strategic expansion reinforces the firm’s commitment to setting a new standard for immersive, full-service experiential offerings.
PricewaterhouseCoopers Corporate Finance LLC served as financial advisor to LEO Events, LLC.
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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of more than 200 brands, employing more than 26,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.
For More Information: [email protected]
ST. LOUIS (April 2, 2026) – Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (“HCRE”), the real estate arm of Hoffmann Family of Companies (“HF Companies”), has expanded its presence in Greater St. Louis with the acquisition of a prominent retail property in downtown Clayton, located at 1 N Central Avenue.
“We’re excited to add 1 N Central to our expanding St. Louis portfolio,” said Greg Hoffmann, CEO of Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate. “This acquisition aligns perfectly with our investment strategy, combining a premier location with strong market fundamentals. It presented a compelling opportunity for our team, and we remain focused on identifying additional investments throughout the surrounding market.”
HCRE maintains a strong footprint across the St. Louis metropolitan area and throughout Missouri, with more than 30 properties statewide. The acquisition of 1 N Central brings together prime location and strong tenancy, supported by long-term leases and favorable market fundamentals.
In 2024, HCRE acquired Pierre Laclede Center, further solidifying its role as a premier business hub in Clayton. In Summer 2025, the firm welcomed Missouri Athletic Club (“MAC”) as one of the building’s newest tenants—a strategic milestone for MAC and a testament to Pierre Laclede Center’s position as a leading destination in the St. Louis business community.
HCRE continues to build momentum with a diverse portfolio of stabilized and value‑add assets in premier markets. Its holdings span California, Canada, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin. Learn more at hoffmanncre.com.
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About Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate
Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), one of two strategic arms within HF Companies, is a premier real estate investment and development firm specializing in the acquisition, management and redevelopment of commercial properties. With a diverse portfolio that spans stabilized and value-added assets, HCRE is committed to enhancing the communities in which it operates through thoughtful development and superior property management. HCRE’s strategic investments are focused both within the United States and internationally, reinforcing its position as a leader in the commercial real estate industry.
About Hoffmann Family of Companies
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 125 global brands and employs more than 26,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.
For More Information: [email protected]
Soft opening set for Friday, March 20, followed by a grand opening on Saturday, March 21.
NAPLES (March 18, 2026) – The Augusta Clothing Company today announced the official opening plan for its new Naples boutique, now welcoming customers at 601 Fifth Avenue South, in the heart of Naples’ premier shopping district.
The store will host a soft opening on Friday, March 20, followed by a grand opening on Saturday, March 21. During the soft opening on Friday, store hours will be 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. For the grand opening on Saturday, hours will be 10:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m. On Sunday, the store will be open from 12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.
Founded and curated by Naples resident Jerri Hoffmann, The Augusta Clothing Company offers a thoughtfully edited selection of high-quality clothing and accessories that reflect timeless style and exceptional craftsmanship. Each piece is hand-selected to balance elevated elegance with everyday wearability.
Originally established in April 2022 in Historic Augusta, Missouri—located within America’s first designated Viticultural Area—the boutique quickly became a favorite destination for discerning shoppers. Housed in the iconic 150-year-old Augusta Wine Hall, the original location is known for its blend of heritage charm and modern sophistication. The expansion into Naples marks a new chapter for the brand, bringing Augusta’s signature style to one of Florida’s most vibrant retail corridors.
“The growth of The Augusta Clothing Company has been an incredibly fun and rewarding experience, and expanding into Naples felt like a natural next step,” said Jerri Hoffmann, Founder. “We’re excited to share our collections with this community and to bring a bit of Augusta’s charm to Fifth Avenue South.”
She added, “Our goal is to help clients build a wardrobe that feels elevated yet attainable…pieces that move effortlessly with them wherever life takes them. There truly is something for everyone here.”
The Naples boutique will be led by Andrea Pereira, who brings extensive luxury retail experience to the role. Pereira previously served as Assistant Store Director for Gucci’s Naples location and held a similar position with Hermès. Her professional background, combined with academic training in management, merchandising, and fashion design, positions her to guide the brand’s newest location.
“I’m honored to join Jerri in this exciting expansion,” said Pereira. “We’re focused on creating an elevated yet welcoming experience—one where every guest feels confident, inspired, and celebrated.”
The new store opening follows Hoffmann Family of Companies’ additional recent acquisitions along Fifth Avenue South, reinforcing its commitment to cultivating distinctive boutique retail experiences that enhance the character of the community. Other recent announcements in Southwest Florida include the redevelopment of Old Corkscrew into Pandion Club, as well as last fall’s acquisition of Pure Florida. Jerri and her husband, businessman David Hoffmann, are also being inducted into Junior Achievement’s Business Hall of Fame at the end of the month.
To explore The Augusta Clothing Company’s collections, visit the online store or stop by the Naples location during store hours.

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 125 global brands and employs more than 26,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information, visit HFCompanies.com.
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CHICAGO/NAPLES/ST. LOUIS (March 12, 2026) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies), the family-owned private equity firm with deep roots in Chicago’s North Shore, Southwest Florida, and Greater St. Louis, is proud to announce that its Founder and Chairman, David Hoffmann, has been honored on Forbes’ prestigious ‘World Billionaires’ list for the fifth consecutive year. Hoffmann ranked No. 1,750 globally in 2025 and climbed to No. 1,571 this year, with a net worth of more than $2.6 billion. Within the United States, he is ranked No. 542.
Hoffmann’s entrepreneurial journey began in 1989 with the founding of Chicago-headquartered DHR Global, a leading global executive search and leadership advisory firm. His real estate revitalization efforts, spearheaded through Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), encompass properties in Naples, Fla; Winnetka, Ill.; Augusta, Mo.; Mackinac Island, Mich.; and Avon, Colo.—collectively valued at over $1.5 billion.
Beyond its real estate portfolio, HF Companies has sustained significant growth since the publication of the 2025 Forbes list, acquiring more than 12 new companies across its primary sectors of focus. This list excludes real estate acquisitions:
- January 2026: Smith Gardens | Bellingham, Wash. | Agriculture
- December 2025: Aspen Daily News | Aspen, Colo. | Media & Marketing
- October 2025: Loadstar Trailers | Toronto | Manufacturing
- October 2025: Pure Florida | Naples, Fla. | Marine
- October 2025: Olympus Limo | Tampa Bay, Fla. | Aviation & Transportation
- September 2025: Derby Fabricating Solutions | Louisville, Ky. | Manufacturing
- September 2025: Telluride Times | Telluride, Colo. | Media & Marketing
- August 2025: Elmer Chocolate | New Orleans, La. | Manufacturing
- July 2025: Atlanta Party Rentals | Atlanta, Ga. | Hospitality & Entertainment
- June 2025: Cohabit Pod Hotel | Avon, Colo. | Hospitality & Entertainment
- June 2025: Missourian Media Group | St. Louis, Mo. | Media & Marketing
- April 2025: Hoffmann Heimos Greenhouses | St. Louis, Mo. | Agriculture
2025 proved to be a banner year for Hoffmann Family of Companies in other ways than acquisitions. December marked one of the firm’s most defining milestones with the announcement of the family’s intent to acquire a controlling interest in the Pittsburgh Penguins, pending NHL approval. At year-end, Hoffmann led a $50 million strategic equity investment in Lee Enterprises (NASDAQ: LEE) and subsequently assumed the role of Chairman of the Company. Lee operates in 72 key markets across America. Together, Lee Enterprises and Hoffmann Media Group now represent the second largest local news organization in the United States, with more than 140 local news publications and approximately 400 specialty print publications.
Another highlight of 2025 was the inaugural Hoffmann Family Equity Summit, held in St. Louis. The gathering brought together leaders across Hoffmann industries to deepen relationships, exchange insights, and experience the strength of the firm’s Missouri footprint—from Miss Augusta and Mount Pleasant Estates to the newly remodeled Pierre Laclede Center. With more than 200 leaders, founders, banking partners, and teammates in attendance, the Summit underscored the energy, collaboration, and shared purpose that continue to define the exceptional portfolio built by Hoffmann and his family.
The Hoffmann family’s philanthropic endeavors span a wide array of causes, including healthcare, youth development, and the arts. They provide financial support and actively serve on the boards of renowned nonprofits such as the Boys & Girls Club of Collier County, Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF), Brightpoint Chicago (formerly Children’s Home & Aid), the Everglades Foundation, the Field Museum (Chicago), the Horatio Alger Association, Joffrey Ballet (Chicago), the Naples Children & Education Foundation, Naples Players Community Theatre, the Naples Zoo, Type 1 Timer (T1T) Hockey, the University of Chicago Kovler Diabetes Center, and the Washington County 4-H Club (Missouri).
To see Hoffmann’s Forbes profile, visit forbes.com/profile/david-hoffmann. To see the complete ranking, visit forbes.com/billionaires. For additional updates on Hoffmann Family of Companies, visit www.hfcompanies.com.
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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:
Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 125 global brands and employs more than 22,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information visit HFCompanies.com
For More Information: [email protected]