Ark MFG Acquires North American Kitchen Solutions’ Stainless Steel Brands

Ark MFG, the holding company of Amerikooler and Tarpon, announced the acquisition of North American Kitchen Solutions’ (NAKS) stainless steel custom fabrication division. The transaction is expected to enable each organization to focus capital, leadership, and operational resources on what they each do best. Both companies are FEDA manufacturer members.

NAKS will further concentrate on growing its core ventilation platform, including its most recent plant acquisition in Venus, Texas. “This was a deliberate and collaborative decision,” said Sacha Polakoff, NAKS president and CEO. “The stainless-steel custom fabrication division is comprised of strong businesses with great people, and it was important to us that they continue under ownership that is deeply committed to manufacturing. Ark MFG is a natural home for these companies and a partner that shares our respect for craftsmanship, quality, and long-term value creation.”

Founded in 1987, NAKS and its subsidiary HoodMart design and manufacture proprietary, commercial kitchen ventilation systems, including exhaust and supply fans, fire suppression systems, ductwork, and integrated solutions for the commercial cooking industry. Following the transaction, NAKS will continue to focus on expanding and strengthening its core ventilation platform.

For Ark MFG, the acquisition expands its stainless-steel fabrication platform, building on its 2025 acquisition of Tarpon Stainless, and further complements its broader foodservice equipment manufacturing portfolio. Under the agreement, Ark MFG will take over the Stainless Specialties Inc. (SSI), Lane Manufacturing, and Custom Kitchen Fabricators brands.

“We are sincerely appreciative of Sacha and the entire NAKS team for the trust they placed in us,” said Gian Carlo Alonso, founder of Ark MFG. “These are well-run businesses with strong reputations and skilled teams. Our role is to support them with capital, operational discipline, and long-term stewardship — while allowing them to continue serving customers with the same pride and independence.”

All three stainless steel businesses will continue operating independently, retaining their existing teams, leadership, and customer relationships. Ark MFG plans to invest in people, equipment, and operating systems while selectively sharing best practices across its stainless-steel operations where it benefits customers, employees, and long-term performance. Both parties emphasized that continuity for employees, customers, and suppliers was a priority throughout the transaction.