26North Partners LP (“26North”), the next-generation alternatives platform founded by Josh Harris, today announced an agreement to acquire a controlling stake in AVI-SPL, the global leader in audio-video and unified communications technologies, from Marlin Equity Partners (“Marlin”) and other selling shareholders. Marlin and select shareholders will retain a minority interest in the company. Financial terms were not disclosed.
AVI-SPL is a trusted partner to the world’s most recognized brands, serving over 86% of the Fortune 100. The company delivers mission-critical audio-visual and collaboration solutions that power the modern workplace, spanning installation, integration and managed services across North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA), and the Asia-Pacific region.
“AVI-SPL exemplifies the kind of business we seek out at 26North—resilient, essential and built for long-term growth,” said Mark Weinberg, Head of Private Equity at 26North. “It operates in an expanding market, holds a leadership position and serves a diversified, blue-chip customer base.”
The investment reflects 26North’s strategy of backing high-quality, middle-market companies with strong fundamentals and proven leadership. AVI-SPL’s management team, led by CEO John Zettel, has consistently driven innovation and operational excellence, positioning the company as a category leader as remote collaboration becomes a permanent fixture of the modern enterprise.
“We’re thrilled to partner with 26North,” said Zettel. “Their long-term vision and operational expertise make them an ideal partner as we continue to scale globally and deliver transformative solutions to our customers.”
With more than 4,400 employees across over 70 offices worldwide, AVI-SPL has completed over 120,000 projects in more than 100 countries. The company is recognized for its ability to deliver scalable solutions that are easy to use and have a measurable impact—qualities that align with 26North’s investment philosophy.
26North will support AVI-SPL through its Alpha Creation Team (ACT), a catalyst for sustainable value that drives operational excellence and taps into a powerful network of relationships across industries — including sports and entertainment — to spark transformative partnerships and accelerate growth.
“AVI-SPL is at the forefront of redefining how organizations connect digital and physical spaces,” said 26North Managing Director Tyler Sipprelle. “Its sustained momentum reflects the company’s ability to meet the growing demand for seamless collaboration. We’re excited to support AVI-SPL as it continues to scale organically and through strategic acquisitions to better serve customers around the world.”
This marks 26North's third investment by its Private Equity platform, following its 2024 acquisitions of ArchKey Solutions and Onelife Fitness. This is the platform’s first transaction in the technology, media and telecommunications sector.
“AVI-SPL’s transformation over the past five years has been remarkable,” said Marlin Managing Director Alex Beregovsky. “From merging two industry leaders at the outset and subsequently working closely with the management team to build a market-leading platform organically and with acquisitions, we are proud of what we have been able to accomplish together. We are enthusiastic to continue our partnership with the team, together with 26North, to support AVI-SPL’s next chapter of growth.”
The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. Kirkland & Ellis LLP and Santander served as legal counsel and financial advisor to 26North. Silver Point Capital Direct Lending led and provided debt financing. Goodwin Procter LLP advised AVI-SPL with Guggenheim Securities, LLC and William Blair acting as financial advisors.
About 26North
26North Partners LP is an integrated, multi-asset class investment platform that provides investment advice and opportunities to its clients related to a variety of investment strategies, including, but not limited to, private equity, credit, and insurance and reinsurance solutions.
The 26North team brings decades of experience managing third-party capital to help clients achieve their financial goals while leaving a lasting impact on the communities where they operate. Since launching in late 2022, 26North has grown to approximately $28 billion in assets under management.
About AVI-SPL
AVI-SPL is a digital enablement solutions provider that transforms how people and technology connect to elevate experiences, create new value, and enable organizations to thrive and grow. We are the largest provider of collaboration technology solutions, which include our award-winning managed services. AVI-SPL’s highly-trained team works hand in hand with organizations worldwide – including over 86% of Fortune 100 companies – to strategize, design, deploy, manage, and support AV and UC solutions that are simple to use, scalable, serviceable, and measurable to ensure business objectives are achieved. Visit AVISPL.com to learn more, or connect with AVI-SPL on LinkedIn and X.
About Marlin Equity Partners
Marlin Equity Partners is a global investment firm with nearly $10 billion in capital commitments specializing in the software, technology and services sectors. Marlin’s mission is to partner with exceptional management teams to drive scale and enhance long-term value in businesses through its deep domain expertise, extensive network and operational transformations focused on product innovation, go-to-market enhancements, and strategic M&A. Founded in 2005, Marlin has completed over 260 acquisitions and raised 13 funds. The firm is headquartered in Los Angeles, California, with an additional office in London. For more information, please visit www.marlinequity.com.
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Contacts
For media inquiries, please contact:
Cristina Alesci
Managing Director, 26North
Email: calesci@26n.com
