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equity firm known for investing in estab- lished, profitable brands and guiding them into their next phase of growth. After more than 45 years under the stewardship of SKB’s founders, the ac- quisition marked a new era for the brand. For co-founder Dave Sanderson, the de- cision to sell to MPE came at a perfect time when introducing the company to the next generation. “MPE is a perfect match for the com- pany,” Sanderson explained. “They special- ize in profitable, established brand name, family-owned businesses that they buy and they professionalize them. We were running this place like a really big little company. They’re recruiting new team members and implementing business systems across the organization that we needed but really didn’t know what to do. It’s a match made in heaven.” That “match” now looks like structured growth and a clear roadmap for the future while maintaining the roots that made SKB a household name among touring musi- cians and gear manufacturers worldwide. Looking to the Future Leading SKB into its next chapter is newly appointed CEO John Saxon. “MPE focuses on founder and fami- ly-owned businesses that are great busi- nesses,” Saxon said. “MPE does not buy distressed assets. It buys quality companies and helps them professionalize and grow and encourages the founders and fami- lies to reinvest in the business alongside [us]. So, we’re blessed to have Dave as a co-investor.” That continued involvement from Sanderson ensures the founders’ values remain embedded in SKB Cases’ future, even as the company embraces its ex- panded infrastructure. Before leading SKB, Saxon built his career in automotive plastics manufactur- ing. No stranger to SKB’s products and
SKB Cases has entered a fresh chapter under new ownership with new CEO John Saxon. The company is focusing on global expansion and deeper MI engagement — all while continuing its mission to protect equipment so the music can keep playing. — By Kimberly Kapela SKB CASES’ NEW ERA SKB Cases’ new owner John Saxton (left) and co-founder Dave Sanderson.
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new era for SKB Cases has unfolded over the past year as the manufacturer of protective cases transitioned into new
ownership and leadership. In January 2025, the family-founded company was officially purchased by MPE, a private
12 I MUSIC INC. I JANUARY 2026
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