The acquisition is designed to back MPI Automotive’s growth in the automotive aftermarket

2nd Summit Capital (2NDSC) has acquired MPI Automotive, Australia’s largest manufacturer of automotive exhaust systems and components and owner of the Manta brand.
2NDSC is backed by a network of investors including Kindred Partners, a long-term permanent capital partner, and GCF Investments, owners of ROH Wheels.
The Draffin family, who founded MPI Automotive in 1974, retains a significant minority interest in the business and continues to manage day-to-day operations, with Edward Draffin continuing as Chief Executive Officer.
The acquisition is the first investment for 2NDSC, an operations-focused private equity firm backing Australian lower middle market companies.
The transaction brings together experienced financial and industry investors with deep automotive expertise, providing MPI Automotive with additional capital, strategic support, and industry relationships to accelerate its next phase of growth.
Strategy firm Active Directions led the transaction for MPI Automotive, alongside Sydney- based firm Sundaraj & Ker as legal advisers. Becketts Lawyers acted as legal adviser to 2NDSC, with BDO providing financial and tax due diligence advisory services.
2NDSC Founder, Jonathan Cutting, said the investment reflects a focus on backing high-quality Australian businesses operating in resilient, specialist segments:
“MPI Automotive was the ideal inaugural investment for us,” Jonathan said.
“It combines everything we want to do as a firm: back a high-quality Australian business, partner alongside the founding family, and co-invest with likeminded investors.
“There’s a significant opportunity in the automotive aftermarket that is sometimes overlooked; an ageing vehicle fleet and preference for quality Australian made parts gives MPI real tailwinds, and we intend to execute an active growth and targeted M&A strategy in the space.”
MPI Automotive has grown into a leading Australian manufacturer, with four facilities across the country and a longstanding commitment to local manufacturing, superior customer service, and product excellence.
Edward said the transaction will enable the business to accelerate its growth strategy while maintaining its focus on product quality and customer service.
“The automotive aftermarket performance sector has boomed over the past decade, and the Manta brand has grown with it,” Edward said.
“Our focus on product development, manufacturing quality, and our distributor base has made us the leading Australian exhaust manufacturer, in a competitive market.
“Partnering with 2NDSC enables us to invest further in our operations and manufacturing capabilities, expand into new markets and product sectors, and grow our distribution channels.
“We’re proud of what the team has built over the past 50 years. This transaction gives us the backing to keep investing in the business, while maintaining the quality, service, and reliability our customers expect from MPI.”

For more information, visit www.mpiautomotive.com