SSG Capital Advisors served as the investment banker to Sanotech 360, dba EMist, in the sale of substantially all of its assets to an affiliate of Bio Surface Management Company. The transaction closed in December pursuant to a Chapter 11 plan of reorganization in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Texas, Fort Worth Division.

EMist develops advanced systems that apply disinfectants utilizing electrostatic sprayers, which place an electrical charge on chemical droplets and disperse the disinfectant across a target area. EMist’s patented technology can quickly cover large areas in airplanes, cruise ships, hospitals, schools, warehouses and many other commercial spaces.

While EMist had a modest revenue base during its development phase, the COVID-19 pandemic created significant demand for EMist’s products and sales grew exponentially in 2020. Management built its inventory based on expectations of continued demand, but the availability of COVID-19 vaccines in early 2021 led to a significant reduction in demand for disinfection solutions. Not only did revenue and cash flow decline, but the company also had to deal with high levels of inventory. In response, management implemented a plan to reduce excess inventory, proactively reduce its cost structure and streamline operations.

Given the financial pressure, EMist filed for bankruptcy in order to restructure its balance sheet and recapitalize the business. SSG was retained in January 2023 as the company’s exclusive investment banker to conduct a comprehensive marketing process to solicit offers for a sale of the company’s assets. SSG’s thorough marketing process garnered interest from a number strategic and financial parties. Ultimately, the offer from Bio Surface Management Company proved to be the best solution for the company. SSG’s experience running competitive sale processes resulted in a transaction that maximized value.

Other professionals who worked on the transaction include:

  • Robert Forshey and Lynda L. Lankford of Forshey Prostok, counsel to Sanotech 360
  • John Tittle, Jr. of Whitley Penn, financial advisor to Sanotech 360