Surplus Solutions Acquires Certified Genetool

Categories: Rhode Island Business NewsRhode Island News

Surplus Solutions enhances its offerings with the recent acquisition of Certified Genetool.

News Summary

Surplus Solutions LLC has announced the acquisition of Certified Genetool, enhancing its presence in the biotech and life sciences sectors. This strategic move aims to broaden operational capabilities and improve service offerings through Certified Genetool’s expertise in laboratory equipment and flow cytometry. The transaction, part of Surplus Solutions’ expansion strategy, reflects the company’s commitment to growth and operational resilience amid industry challenges, including rising tariffs. With nearly 200,000 square feet of warehousing space, Surplus Solutions is positioned to meet increasing customer demands effectively.

Woonsocket, Rhode Island — Surplus Solutions LLC has announced the acquisition of Certified Genetool, a San Francisco-based company specializing in laboratory equipment. The acquisition, made public on April 7, 2025, is part of Surplus Solutions’ strategy to enhance its presence in the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and life sciences sectors. The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Surplus Solutions, known for its sales of used and refurbished laboratory instruments, aims to broaden its operational capabilities through this merger. By acquiring Certified Genetool, which has served the scientific community for over 20 years, Surplus Solutions is expected to expand its customer base and improve its technical expertise, particularly in the area of flow cytometry.

The acquisition marks a significant step forward for Surplus Solutions, which is a portfolio company of NMS Capital. Joe Reale, CEO of Surplus Solutions, described the transaction as a milestone in developing a comprehensive equipment lifecycle management platform. The strategy behind the merger is designed to improve service offerings and broaden market reach for both companies.

Certified Genetool is recognized for its refurbishment and resale of certified laboratory instruments. The company also provides value-added services such as installation, repairs, and maintenance contracts. This expertise will complement Surplus Solutions’ current offerings, thereby enhancing its overall service portfolio.

The recent merger aligns with Surplus Solutions’ ongoing expansion strategy—an approach previously demonstrated by its acquisition of a hub in France aimed at strengthening its European operations. With a total of nearly 200,000 square feet of warehouse space in Rhode Island and California, Surplus Solutions is well-positioned to manage an increasing volume of inventory and customer demands.

As part of its diverse business model, Surplus Solutions conducts auctions for laboratory equipment, including an upcoming auction featuring 711 items from Thermo Fisher Scientific. This operational model not only supports Surplus Solutions’ sales strategy but also allows for a continual update of its inventory, ensuring the availability of high-quality equipment for its customers.

This acquisition comes at a time when the laboratory equipment sector faces challenges, including rising tariffs on imported medical devices. These economic factors highlight the significance of strategic mergers as a means to foster growth and improve operational resilience. David Peterson, a partner at NMS, emphasized that this acquisition reflects a continued commitment to strategic and value-driven growth within the company.

Surplus Solutions was advised in the acquisition by the law firm McDermott Will & Emery, while Certified Genetool received guidance from Perkins Coie. Financing for the acquisition was secured through TPG Twin Brook Capital Partners, Surplus Solutions’ existing lender, ensuring that the transaction was executed smoothly and efficiently.

As Surplus Solutions continues to grow, both the company and its customers are expected to benefit from the enhanced service offerings and the expanded product range resulting from the integration of Certified Genetool’s capabilities. This strategic acquisition is more than just an addition to Surplus Solutions’ portfolio; it represents a proactive approach to remaining competitive in an increasingly challenging economic landscape.