Generational Group Advises UK Abrasives, Inc. in its Sale to GNPGraystar

By Generational Group

06/17/2025

Generational Group, a leading mergers and acquisitions advisory firm for privately held businesses, is pleased to announce the sale of UK Abrasives, Inc. to GNPGraystar, a subsidiary of SurfacePrep. The acquisition closed May 9, 2025.

Based in Northbrook, Illinois, UK Abrasives, Inc. is an advanced materials engineering company specializing in the manufacture and global distribution of electro-furnace-produced Boron Carbide (B4C) powders, Synthetic Diamond powders, Boron Nitride products, and other high-performance super-abrasive and abrasive materials. Founded in 1993 by longtime colleagues Vladimir Kompan, Vitaly Slobodsky, and Mark Gorelik, the company’s primary product, B4C, is widely used in advanced manufacturing applications, including ballistic armor, nuclear radiation shielding, hard disk drives, and various other advanced ceramic-grade technologies.

Headquartered in Byron Center, Michigan, SurfacePrep, and its subsidiary GNPGraystar, represent the largest national network of regional distributors focused on high-quality abrasive products, specialty ceramics, and surface finishing solutions. With a strong reputation for technical expertise and customer service, SurfacePrep supports a wide range of industries through its comprehensive product offering and nationwide footprint.

Michael Goss, Executive Managing Director, M&A, Central Region, led the deal to a successful closing, with the support of Vice President, M&A, Brennon Dunbar.

“I am extremely honored to have been able to forge such a dynamic and trusting relationship with Mark, Vladimir, and Vitaly, which traversed multiple micro- and macro-economic events, always unforeseen and seemingly complicating the exit strategy and timing for the Sellers,” said Michael Goss. “UK Abrasives is such an internationally integrated supply chain and customer channel contributor, that it took an equally robust and seasoned team at SurfacePrep to understand, measure, and appreciate the various value-add nuances and intricate operational efficiencies inherent in UK Abrasives.”

“This deal reflects our core values of diligence and long-term commitment to our clients,” said Ryan Binkley, CEO of Generational Group. “It’s great to see hard work pay off and to help clients achieve a successful outcome that truly honors their legacy.”