Kingpin Tattoo Supply, a well-known designer, manufacturer, and distributor of tattoo equipment and supplies, has been acquired by Nexus Brands Group, a portfolio company of Bunker Hill Capital. This strategic move brings together two industry leaders, solidifying Nexus Brands Group’s position as the largest family of branded full-service tattoo supply companies in North America. Kingpin, based in St. Petersburg, Florida, joins TATSoul, a premium brand supplier within Nexus, to create a powerhouse of quality and innovation in the tattoo industry.
This acquisition signals a significant development for professional tattoo artists. By combining Kingpin Tattoo Supply’s extensive product range and industry expertise with TATSoul’s reputation for premium furniture and equipment, Nexus Brands Group is poised to offer an unparalleled selection of tattoo supplies. Artists can expect a comprehensive source for all their needs, from kingpin tattoo supply essentials like needles and tubes to furniture, inks, machines, and medical supplies.
Dave Mayer, the founder, CEO, and President of Kingpin Tattoo Supply, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “I have always been impressed with TATSoul’s commitment to product quality, innovation, and ongoing artist support,” Mayer stated. “I feel that this partnership has been twenty years in the making, and I am looking forward to Kingpin and TATSoul continuing to be the industry’s innovative leader and voice of the professional artist.” Mayer’s vision over two decades has established Kingpin as a trusted brand, and this merger promises to amplify its reach and impact within the tattoo community.
To further strengthen Nexus Brands Group, Bunker Hill Capital has appointed Brian Etter as the new Chief Executive Officer. Etter brings a wealth of experience, most recently serving as CEO and President of Motorsport Aftermarket Group, Inc. Rufus Clark, Managing Partner at Bunker Hill Capital, highlighted Etter’s successful track record, noting his experience in growing revenue and integrating multiple brands within enthusiast markets. “Brian’s terrific job guiding MAG through a fourfold increase in revenue… gives us great confidence that Brian is the ideal person to lead Nexus Brands Group,” Clark commented.
Etter himself sees parallels between motorcycle enthusiasts and professional tattoo artists, emphasizing passion, authenticity, and engagement. “I am looking forward to working with our customers and brands to develop new innovative products, while maintaining our focus on high quality and superior customer service,” said Etter. This focus on customer service and product innovation aligns perfectly with the existing ethos of both Kingpin Tattoo Supply and TATSoul.
Billy Chen, Co-founder and CMO of TATSoul, also welcomed the developments, stating, “The addition of Kingpin to the Nexus family of brands and the appointment of a senior executive as accomplished and seasoned as Brian demonstrates Bunker Hill’s commitment to supporting Nexus Brands’ vision.” This unified vision points towards a future of growth and enhanced offerings for the tattoo industry.
About Kingpin Tattoo Supply
Founded in 1996, Kingpin Tattoo Supply has grown into a leading name in the tattoo industry. Known for its commitment to quality, kingpin tattoo supply manufactures high-grade needles and tubes and distributes a comprehensive range of tattoo essentials. This includes inks, machines, medical supplies, and body piercing accessories, making it a one-stop shop for tattoo professionals. Kingpin’s dedication to consistent product excellence and superior customer service has earned them a loyal following and a strong reputation within the tattoo artist community.
About Nexus Brands Group
Nexus Brands Group is a collective of leading brands catering to professional markets. Beyond the tattoo industry with TATSoul and Kingpin, Nexus also includes ComfortGroom, serving the pet grooming market, and ComfortSoul, focused on the spa/salon sector. This diverse portfolio allows for shared expertise in design, development, and innovation, while each brand maintains its independent operations and market focus. The overarching Nexus Brands Group structure provides support and resources to foster growth and synergy across its portfolio companies.
About Bunker Hill Capital, L.P.
Bunker Hill Capital is a private equity firm specializing in investments in lower middle market companies with enterprise values up to $120 million. With a significant investment history, Bunker Hill Capital targets companies across various sectors, including industrial products, business services, consumer products, and specialty retail. Their portfolio includes notable companies like Papa Gino’s/D’Angelo and Hubbardton Forge, demonstrating their diverse investment strategy and commitment to fostering growth in their portfolio companies. Their investment in Nexus Brands Group and the acquisition of kingpin tattoo supply highlights their continued interest in the consumer and specialty retail sectors.
Contacts
Bunker Hill Capital
Brian E. Kinsman, 858-793-4560
Managing Partner
or
Robert L. Clark, Jr. 617-720-4032
or
Austin Wright, 617-398-5514
Vice President
