SMG Group announced the acquisition of AFS Corporate Member Hunter Foundry Machinery Corporation, a global maker of matchplate molding machines, mold handling equipment and sand casting technology for the global foundry market.  

“Bringing Hunter into the SMG portfolio is a significant milestone and an exciting new venture for us,” said SMG CEO Manny Gandhi. “We are committed to maintaining the Hunter family legacy, while infusing essential capital for global growth and enhancing the existing Hunter management team with top-tier talent. Our goal is to provide ongoing world-class service to Hunter customers, supporting their growth and contributing to their success with the engineering expertise, quality equipment and foundry production talents that have made Hunter a leader in the industry for decades.”

The company was founded in 1964 by Al Hunter, who pioneered the automated matchplate molding machine concept and held dozens of patents in the industry. His son Bill, the former chairman, who will remain in a consulting role during the transition, likewise developed numerous innovations in sand molding machine and mold handling equipment technology. Bill Hunter’s son, Doug, and his two siblings will retain a minority equity interest at Hunter.

“This transition for Hunter will result in increased capabilities for the company, while maintaining our core strengths,” said Bill Hunter. “Manny and his team will bring considerable value to the overall Hunter operation and we look forward to ongoing success from this decision. My son Doug will carry on the legacy traditions started by my dad … Our current president, Peter Li, who headed up our Shanghai operation and has been a key component in this transition, will likewise remain in the Hunter family.”