Capstone Partners advised Wilkerson Crane Rental, Inc.—a leading provider of operated and bare crane rentals, machinery moving, heavy hauling, rigging, and related value-added services—on its strategic investment from NewMile Capital and Haywood Lane. The transaction closed in March 2026, and terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Founded in 2013 by Diana and Jeff Holt and headquartered in Bonner Springs, Kansas, Wilkerson operates a modern equipment fleet serving the wind energy, infrastructure, manufacturing, industrial, and commercial end markets. For more information on Wilkerson Crane Rental, visit here.
Wilkerson has expanded through a combination of organic investment and targeted acquisitions, extending its geographic footprint and service capabilities across the Midwest. Today, its diversified fleet supports a broad range of lifting applications, from routine service lifts to complex infrastructure and industrial projects.
Selecting the right advisor was a critical decision as we evaluated the next phase of growth for Wilkerson Crane Rental. We chose [Capstone Partners] because of their deep experience in the crane and equipment rental industry, strong relationships with the right partners and their ability to position our business effectively. Their team guided us through every stage of the process with professionalism and insight, helping us navigate a complex transaction and achieve a great outcome. Most importantly, [Capstone] helped us identify a partner who aligns with our culture and vision, while providing the additional capital and resources to support our continued growth. We’re excited about what this means for our employees, customers, and the future of Wilkerson.
The investment will support fleet expansion, geographic growth and enhanced service capabilities. Diana and Jeff will retain a significant ownership stake and remain actively involved with the business, partnering with NewMile Capital and Haywood Lane to support Wilkerson’s next phase of growth.
NewMile Capital is a private equity firm that partners with founder‑led and entrepreneur‑owned lower middle market businesses, working closely with management teams to drive growth, operational improvements, and strategic acquisitions. For more information on NewMile Capital, visit here.
Haywood Lane is a Dallas-based investment firm that makes long-term investments in entrepreneurs, family-owned businesses, and management teams across a range of industries to create enduring value with middle market companies.
The investment banking professionals on Capstone Partners’ dedicated Industrials Team work with leading middle market companies operating in the crane rental and equipment rental markets to advise with their strategic decision-making in order to maximize financial outcomes at every stage of the business lifecycle. Our firm has developed a full suite of corporate finance solutions, including M&A advisory, debt advisory, financial advisory, and equity capital financing to help privately owned businesses and private equity firms address any need, ranging from growth and financial or operational advisement to an ultimate exit transaction. To learn more about this transaction, or about the benefits of starting a relationship with our Industrials Banking Team, contact us here.
