Impark Acquisition by Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan Supports Future Growth

BBGPI, a joint venture between Gates Group Capital Partners, a Cleveland-based private equity firm, and London-based Global Partners Fund, acquired Impark in 2006. The current transaction, which is expected to close in 2011 and is subject to regulatory approval, was led by Teachers Long-Term Equities group, which is focused on direct investments that have steady cash flow and growth potential over a long-term horizon and a low to moderate level of risk.

We are extremely optimistic about the benefits of Teachers investment, said Allan Copping, CEO of Impark. The new partnership with Teachers will allow Impark to further invest in the technology, processes and people that enable us to deliver innovative parking solutions to our clients and customers.  As Impark enters its 50th year, the company is well positioned to develop its core strengths and continue its sustainable growth.
 
Impark has established a very strong position within the parking and real estate sectors. As a market leader, it is an excellent fit with our investment criteria of providing reliable income streams, consistent performance and growth opportunities. We look forward to partnering with the Impark management team to continue building the company in Canada and achieving new expansion in key U.S. markets, said Lee Sienna, Vice-President, Long-Term Equities.
 
Blackstone Advisory Partners acted as exclusive financial advisor to Impark on this transaction.

Headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, Impark is one of the largest parking management companies in North America and currently leases or manages in excess of 2,000 parking locations, consisting of more than 400,000 parking spaces, in over 25 markets throughout Canada and the United States.