Lakeland Fire + Safety CEO Jim Jenkins reports on fiscal year 2025 performance

Lakeland Fire + Safety CEO Jim Jenkins has outlined the company’s fiscal year 2025 performance, highlighting acquisitions, leadership changes, and financial growth.

Jenkins stated that the company completed a $46 million public equity offering, strengthening its balance sheet and providing resources for expansion in the fire protection sector.

He noted that the offering is expected to generate annual cash interest savings of approximately $2.5 million.

Jenkins said the company completed four acquisitions over the past year, expanding its product portfolio and market presence.

He emphasised a renewed focus on acquisitions in fire turnout gear and the decontamination services segment, which he described as offering high-margin recurring revenue streams.

CEO highlights acquisitions and global expansion

Jenkins detailed the company’s recent acquisitions, which he said have strengthened Lakeland Fire + Safety’s position in key global markets.

He noted that in late 2023, Lakeland acquired New Zealand-based Pacific Helmets NZ Limited, a manufacturer of helmets for structural firefighting, wildland firefighting, and rescue operations.

He described this acquisition as complementing the company’s turnout gear offerings and creating additional cross-selling opportunities.

In early 2024, Jenkins said Lakeland acquired Jolly Scarp, an Italy-based manufacturer of professional footwear for firefighters, military personnel, police, and rescue workers.

He highlighted Jolly’s established reputation for quality and its strong presence in the first responder safety market.

Jenkins also pointed to the acquisition of LHD Group Deutschland GmbH and its subsidiaries, which provide firefighter turnout gear and decontamination services.

He said LHD has a market presence in Germany, Australia, and Hong Kong, with its Lakeland LHD Care division offering protective clothing maintenance services.

In December, Lakeland completed its fourth acquisition of the year, Veridian, which Jenkins said supplies firefighter protective apparel, gloves, and boots.

He stated that this acquisition strengthens Lakeland’s position in the US and Latin America.

Leadership appointments to support future growth

Jenkins also announced leadership changes to support the company’s expansion.

He said Barry Phillips has been appointed Chief Revenue Officer, bringing over 37 years of experience in sales leadership and revenue growth in the fire services sector.

Jenkins also introduced Cameron Stokes as the new Chief Commercial Officer, Global Industrial, noting his focus on industrial safety product sales.

Jenkins highlighted the appointment of Laurel Yartz as Chief Human Resources Officer.

He said Yartz has over 30 years of HR leadership experience and will oversee workforce development and cultural transformation.

Jenkins also noted his own transition to President, CEO, and Executive Chairman, after previously serving as Executive Chairman and a director since 2012.

He said he remains committed to executing the company’s strategy for building a premier global fire services brand.

Future growth strategy and acquisition plans

Looking ahead, Jenkins said Lakeland Fire + Safety will continue its acquisition strategy in the fire protection sector.

He said the company is focused on consolidating the fragmented fire market and expanding into high-margin industrial and chemical safety products.

Jenkins also outlined plans to improve operating and manufacturing efficiencies to increase profitability while strengthening Lakeland’s global market position.

Lakeland Fire + Safety CEO outlines growth and acquisition strategy: Summary

Lakeland Fire + Safety CEO Jim Jenkins has reported on the company’s fiscal year 2025 performance, detailing acquisitions, leadership changes, and financial strategy.

He announced that the company raised $46 million through a public equity offering, improving its financial position and reducing debt-related costs.

Jenkins said Lakeland completed four acquisitions, including Pacific Helmets, Jolly Scarp, LHD Group Deutschland, and Veridian.

He stated that these acquisitions have expanded Lakeland’s global market presence and enhanced its product offerings.

To support growth, Jenkins announced several leadership appointments, including a Chief Revenue Officer, Chief Commercial Officer, and Chief Human Resources Officer.

He also confirmed his transition to President, CEO, and Executive Chairman.

Jenkins said Lakeland will continue to pursue acquisitions in fire turnout gear and decontamination services while expanding in the industrial and chemical safety sectors.

He also emphasised the company’s focus on increasing manufacturing efficiencies and market penetration.