Filmwerks, a Rocky Point company that provides production services for broadcasts and events, has acquired New York-based Hale Electrical in a deal that would grow the local company’s geographic reach and inventory asset, according to Filmwerks President Michael Satrazemis.
Hale Electrical, which was purchased for an undisclosed amount, specializes in large-scale electrical distribution for festivals, sporting events, concerts and more.
“We had used Hale Electrical as a supplier for various concert and live event projects in the past and it was a component that we didn’t really have in our inventory; none the less, it was something we needed,” Satrazemis said. “Our relationship with them has built over time.”
Hale Electrical co-owner Dave Neveaux will be joining the Filmwerks team.
The acquisition, the third for the company, will help it expand its reach, he said.
“We felt that we needed to create a number of geographic locations in the country,” Satrazemis said. “So, in an effort to do this, we involved some investment bankers with the intent of growing ourselves organically and at a faster pace than we normally would through acquisitions.”
The company has purchased companies over the years because it gives them three important assets, he said.
“No. 1 is geography: these acquisitions give us better access to our client base,” Satrazemis said. “Second, we're picking up inventory that would take us eight months to build. Another is a strong successful management. Were looking for a strong management. When you buy a company, you get the management and that is the hardest part to get.”
Filmwerks, which currently has about 140 employees, provides power supply, stages, lighting, broadcasting, climate control and trucking services for events. Some shows the company worked on this year include the 2019 Super Bowl and the PGA Tour.
The company is working on designing the 2020 Super Bowl in Miami and will be heavily involved in all broadcast elements for the 2020 presidential candidate debates, primaries and presidential inauguration, he said.
With the closure of the Hale Electrical purchase, Filmwerks is planning on making other acquisitions this year, one within the next 90 days, Satrazemis said.
"We want to churn out another acquisition," he said.