Chuck Surack, founder of Surack Enterprises, announced that he has purchased The Enstrom Helicopter Corporation of Menominee, Michigan, to rebuild the Enstrom brand into one of the leading American-made helicopter manufacturers as it once was. In a letter to the Enstrom leadership team, Surack shared his appreciation to the employees for their devotion and dedication over the years and particularly during the last few difficult months.
Surack is widely known for founding Sweetwater Sound, the largest online retailer of musical instruments and professional audio equipment, growing it to a $1.5 billion business out of the back of his Volkswagen bus. His entrepreneurial spirit, business acumen, and enthusiasm for aviation are just a few reasons why under his ownership, the future is bright for Enstrom.
Matt Francour, President & CEO of Enstrom, said, “Earlier this year, it looked as if MidTex Aviation would step in and buy Enstrom, but when they had unexpected problems securing the funding, Chuck was able to step in and save the company, which ended a lot of sleepless nights here for us in Michigan!” With the help of Carson LLP and Warner Norcross + Judd LLP, the trustee’s attorney, the purchase was able to proceed quickly.”
Additionally, Surack’s history with Enstrom dates to 2008, when he learned to fly helicopters and, before even obtaining his pilot’s license, he purchased a brand-new Enstrom 480B. Surack said, “I am excited to have purchased this outstanding company that manufactures helicopters here in the United States and employs workers right here in the Midwest.”
The Enstrom Helicopter Corporation joins the Surack Enterprises portfolio of aviation-related businesses, including Sweet Aviation, which provides charter flights, training, and rental for fixed-wing aircraft; Sweet Helicopters, which does the same for rotorcraft and is the official helicopter services provider of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway; and Aviation Specialty Insurance, which insures the aviation industry including corporations, light aircraft, flight schools, drones & UAVs, and more.
Enstrom has maintained a reputation for safety, value and performance. The immediate goal will be to continue supporting pilots who already own an Enstrom helicopter by providing parts and support. The company is excited to start building helicopters again and is planning to improve and update the Enstrom helicopter fleet.
