Premium Guard Inc. announced it has agreed to acquire key intellectual property and related assets from First Brands Group, a move the filter manufacturer says will strengthen its product development capabilities while reinforcing its focus on private label programs.
PGI said the transaction is subject to bankruptcy court approval and other customary closing conditions and is expected to close in early April.
According to the company, the agreement includes a purchase price of $25 million, plus additional quarterly payments equal to 1.25 per cent of net sales, capped at $8 million.
The agreement comes as First Brands restructures its operations under U.S. bankruptcy protection. The supplier filed for Chapter 11 in late 2025 after launching a formal sale process for its portfolio of brands and assets. As part of that restructuring, First Brands announced it would wind down or shut several North American product lines, including Brake Parts Inc., Cardone and Autolite, while seeking buyers for intellectual property and other businesses.
PGI said the deal covers the intellectual property behind some of First Brands’ most established aftermarket brands and product lines, including FRAM filters, Luber‑finer, PetroClear, Autolite, Champ and Champion Laboratories filtration and components; Trico, Anco and ExactFit wiper blades; and StrongArm, Mighty Lift and AVM lift support products.
“This is a meaningful step forward for PGI,” said Anan Bishara, founder and CEO of Premium Guard Inc. “The know‑how, patents, and engineering capabilities we are acquiring, particularly in wiper blades, spark plugs, and diesel filtration, significantly strengthen our platform, enabling us to continue developing advanced, reliable, and complete solutions across multiple tiers.”
Founded in 1996, PGI has built a global supply chain, broad distribution network and capabilities in product management, engineering and category management. The company said the newly acquired assets complement its existing strengths in filtration, wiper blades and related maintenance products such as drain plugs, while supporting expansion into additional categories such as ignition and spark plugs.
PGI said the broader portfolio will enhance its category management approach, enabling customers to benefit from more integrated assortments, improved shelf and lineup strategies, and stronger cross‑category attachment opportunities.
The transaction also includes internationally recognized brands, which PGI said will strengthen its platform as it looks to expand beyond North America. By leveraging its global sourcing and logistics capabilities, PGI said it will be better positioned to align with customers’ international growth strategies and help support their expansion into new markets.
PGI emphasized that the acquisition does not change its core business model or its commitment to partners affected by First Brands’ restructuring. The company said it will continue to focus on best‑in‑class private label programs, supply chain execution and customer alignment.
“This investment strengthens our ability to deliver high‑quality products, expanded coverage, and advanced technology, while remaining fully aligned with our customers’ brands and growth strategies,” Bishara said.
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