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Merit Investment Bank Wins 2021 M&A Advisor Awards: Boutique Investment Firm of the Year, Information Technology Deal of the Year, and Corporate Strategic Deal of the Year 

Merit Investment Bank Investment Bank of the Year
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Merit Investment Bank & Company, a leading Boutique Investment Bank focused on serving middle-market technology-forward companies, is excited to announce their success at the 20th annual M&A Advisor Awards. Winners were announced late last year at the Gala Ceremony live event in New York City. During this ceremony, Merit Investment Bank was presented with the following awards: 

Boutique Investment Banking Firm of the Year 

Information Technology Deal of the Year $100-$250M 

Corporate Strategic Deal of the Year $50-$100M 

M&A Advisor is the preeminent organization recognizing professional excellence in completing complex and industry significant Mergers and Acquisition. The M&A Advisor strives to honor the best deals and dealmakers while advancing thought leadership for how the best deals get done.    

J. Craig Dickens, CEO of Merit Investment Bank, stated in reference to the Boutique Investment Firm of the Year award, “This prestigious honor is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Merit Investment Bank team, as we found creative solutions to complete complex, value-creating transactions during challenging times. We are very proud that our creative professionals continue to execute award-winning deals and exemplify integrity, intelligence, insight, instinct, and intensity while serving our clients.”

Further, when awarded the Information Technology Deal of the Year, Todd Ostrander, Managing Director at Merit Investment Bank expressed, “Merit Investment Bank was excited to bring our tech industry knowledge to work alongside our partners at CDI Global with such an outstanding and well-managed seller in SmartProcure.” Ostrander acknowledged, “Challenges exist in every transaction but the professional approach the team took to work with us to maximize their outcome proved to Thompson Street that they were a team worth investing in for the long term.” 

Joseph (JD) Durnford, Chairman of Merit Investment Bank, was a featured speaker during the event and shared his views on deal making best practices and current M&A trends. After receiving these prestigious awards, Mr. Durnford stated “that it is always humbling to see our firm recognized by our industry peers in the dealmaking community, but the credit really goes to the CEOs and entrepreneurs of the innovative companies we serve as they complete industry transformative transactions.” 

About Merit Investment Bank:

Merit Investment Bank is a leading Boutique Investment Bank focused on serving middle-market technology-forward companies. Merit Investment Bank executes sell-side M&A, buy-side M&A, and capital advisory services with specific emphasis on the technology, software, consumer, telecom/ wireless, and manufacturing / Industry 4.0 sectors. In addition, Merit Investment Bank offers other Investment banking services such as debt and equity capital raises, restructuring advisory services, business valuations, and project financing through its subsidiary, Merit Investment Bank Securities, member FINRA / SIPC, a full-service Broker-Dealerlicensed in 50 states

Merit Investment Bank, a leading middle market investment bank, with a specialization in building products, is honored to have served as exclusive advisor to VaproShield (“VaproShield”) in its sale to (Muncaster Capital.)

by: Merit Investment Bank

SEATTLE – October 31, 2025 – PR.com – Merit Investment Bank (“Merit”), a leading middle-market investment bank with deep expertise in the building products and construction materials sector, is pleased to announce that it served as the exclusive financial advisor to VaproShield, a premier manufacturer of high-performance air and water barrier systems, in its sale to Muncaster Capital, a privately held investment company based in Texas.

This strategic transaction represents a significant milestone for VaproShield, a recognized innovator in the building-envelope industry. For more than two decades, the company has pioneered the design and manufacture of high-performance, vapor-permeable air barrier (AB) and water-resistive barrier (WRB) membranes and accessories. Through its commitment to research, sustainability, and customer-focused innovation, VaproShield has become a trusted partner to architects, builders, and developers seeking to enhance energy efficiency, moisture control, and long-term building performance.

“The sale of VaproShield shows what’s possible when visionary founders create real value and plan strategically for an exceptional exit,” said Craig Dickens, Chairman of Merit Investment Bank. “We were honored to help align the company with the right partner, culture, and capital for its next stage of growth. This milestone reflects years of innovation, discipline, and thoughtful preparation leading to an outstanding outcome.”

The acquisition by Muncaster Capital, am ESOP, will provide VaproShield with additional resources and strategic backing to expand operations, accelerate innovation, and strengthen its presence in both domestic and international markets. Muncaster’s long-term investment philosophy aligns closely with Vaproshield’s mission to deliver environmentally responsible, high-performance solutions to the construction industry.

“VaproShield has built an exceptional brand through innovation, sustainability, and performance,” added Chris Barnes, Managing Director at Merit Investment Bank. “It was a privilege to advise such a forward-thinking team whose commitment to excellence andcustomer trust has made them industry leaders. This transaction delivers a strong outcome for shareholders and positions VaproShield for its next phase of growth.”

Legal counsel for the company was provided by Holland & Knight LLP. Merit extends its appreciation to Stephen McKay and the firm’s M&A team for their seasoned legal guidance and support throughout the transaction, ensuring a smooth and efficient closing process.

The company was also advised by Baker Tilly US, LLP. Merit acknowledges Preston Smith, Director – Transaction Advisory, and Michael Hurst, Partner – Tax, for their expert guidance and transactional support. Their technical insight and professionalism were instrumental in achieving a successful closing.

About the Buyer

Muncaster Capital of Texas, Inc. is a privately held holding company based in Ennis, Texas, primarily associated with the building materials and protective coatings industry. Established in 1986, it serves as the parent company for Polyguard Products, a leading manufacturer of high-performance barrier systems, air and moisture membranes, and protective coatings used in construction and infrastructure projects.

Muncaster Capital oversees operations focused on innovation, sustainability, and long-term business growth within the building-envelope sector. As a mid-sized, family-owned enterprise, it plays a strategic role in managing assets, guiding corporate development, and supporting Polyguard’s mission to deliver durable, energy-efficient solutions to the construction industry.

About Merit Investment Bank

Merit Investment Bank is a leading boutique investment bank focused on serving founder/family-owned middle-market, technology-forward companies. The firm principally executes sell-side M&A, as well transactions with specific emphasis on the building products technology, infrstructure, consumer, and manufacturing/distribution/industry 4.0 sectors.

In addition, Merit offers services including buy-side M&A debt and equity capital raises, restructuring advisory, business valuations, and project financing.

Securities offered through Finalis Securities LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Merit Investment Bank and Finalis Securities LLC are separate, unaffiliated entities

Contact:

Craig Dickens, Chairman

Merit Investment Bank

Craig.Dickens@MeritInvestmentBank.com

253-370-8893

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