Astara Capital Partners

Astara Capital Partners is a private equity firm that focuses on control equity investments in middle-market companies. The firm distinguishes itself by being an integrated team of investors and operators, bringing both capital and strategic resources to its portfolio companies. Their investment philosophy centers on building sustainable value by making companies fundamentally better, rather than relying heavily on financial leverage. They aim to partner with management teams to transform businesses into industry leaders, often engaging with founder- and family-owned companies.

Founded in 2020, Astara Capital Partners was established by Michael Ranson, a long-time partner at Blue Wolf. The firm was formed with a team that has over 100 years of cumulative experience in middle-market investments, having participated in control equity investments and held C-level positions across various business cycles. Astara Capital Partners is headquartered in New York, New York.

Astara Capital Partners targets a diverse range of sectors where its team has deep experience, including packaging & converting, food processing & distribution, building & forest products, aerospace/defense/government contracting, niche manufacturing, and business & industrial services. Notable investments include Garlock Flexibles (acquired in 2021 and later merged with C-P Flexible Packaging in 2025), Wyandot Snacks (2023), Del-Air Heating and Air Conditioning (2022), Ally Building Solutions (2024), and BDV Solutions (2021).

The firm's team comprises experienced investors and operators, including Managing Partner Michael Ranson, Partners Rob Groberg and Lindsey Tannenbaum, and Operating Partners Chris Curti and Chad Barton. Astara emphasizes a hands-on approach, leveraging its network of operators and advisors to provide strategic and functional expertise to portfolio companies. They are signatories to the UN Principles for Responsible Investing (PRI) and integrate ESG principles into their investment decisions and operational approach, aiming to build companies that are good corporate citizens and contribute positively to society.