Founded in September of 1992, Smart Start has grown from a privately-held operation in Irving, TX to the world’s foremost presence in offender alcohol monitoring.
To date, the company has amassed nearly 1,600 locations, prevented over 6.5 million illegal vehicle starts, and serviced over half a million clients. Smart Start’s revolutionary devices—like the SSI-20/30™ Ignition Interlock and the portable IN-HOM™ S.M.A.R.T. Mobile™—have helped to reduce drunken driving fatalities, positively influence offenders, and make roads safer internationally. Under the guidance of ABRY Partners, Smart Start will continue to employ innovative, user-friendly technology in saving lives.
“ABRY brings a wealth of knowledge in the offender monitoring industry and provides a large network of resources,” said Smart Start CEO Matt Strausz. “We look forward to the growth and opportunities that a partner of this caliber will facilitate.” ABRY Partners boasts 26 years of industry experience and has completed over $45 billion in leveraged transactions.
The ignition interlock device (IID) and alcohol monitoring industries have been expanding rapidly in recent years and are poised for continued growth as more state and local courts explore the benefits of alcohol monitoring. Legislative changes have further increased the relevance and impact of ignition interlocks. With the additional financial strength now available, Smart Start will be able to use targeted, strategic acquisitions to augment both company and industry growth. From advanced camera solutions and GPS applications to the company’s proprietary SmarTrac software platform, Smart Start has consistently demonstrated technological leadership. With the support of ABRY Partners, Smart Start will continue Setting the Standard in Alcohol-Monitoring Technology®.
Sean Kelly and his team from Cappello Global, LLC served as exclusive financial advisors to 1A Smart Start, Inc. in connection with this transaction. This acquisition marks the beginning of an exciting new journey for both Smart Start and ABRY Partners. As CEO Strausz noted, “The future at Smart Start has never looked better.”
August 26, 2015