Partnership brings together decades of experience and digital innovation to expand customer solutions and accelerate growth

JONESBORO, Ark., Sept. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Portrait Capital, a private investment firm, today announced that it has acquired AAi Labels & Decals ("Art Advertising, Inc." or "AAi") and Sticker Ranch, combining the two companies to create a leading platform in the label industry. Lynn Higgs, founder of Sticker Ranch and a proven industry operator, will become Chief Executive Officer of the combined business.

Founded in 1969 in Jonesboro, Arkansas, AAi has grown into a trusted provider of mission-critical labels and decals supporting compliance, safety, and branding requirements across North America.

Sticker Ranch, co-founded by incoming CEO Lynn Higgs and Joseph Thomas, is a modern web-to-print label platform whose digital-first capabilities complement AAi's customer base and enable expansion into consumer label markets.

"AAi has built an incredible reputation over more than 50 years as a trusted supplier of durable, compliance-driven labels," said Lynn Higgs, incoming CEO. "By integrating Sticker Ranch's digital capabilities and leveraging Portrait Capital's resources, we are well positioned to serve our customers and pursue strategic acquisitions in this highly fragmented market."

The partnership reflects Portrait Capital's mission of honoring the legacy of exceptional family businesses while supporting leadership to unlock their full potential.

"AAi exemplifies what we look for in a platform investment: a remarkable family business providing mission-critical services with deep customer relationships and strong recurring demand," said Justin Burris, Managing Partner at Portrait Capital. "We are excited to partner with Lynn and the entire AAi team to grow the business while maintaining the culture of quality and service that has defined AAi for decades."

Stacy and Gary Gestring, who have owned and operated AAi since 1998, will transition day-to-day leadership to Higgs while continuing to support the business.

With this acquisition, Portrait Capital aims to build AAi into a market-leading platform delivering innovative labels and decals throughout North America. The combined company will focus on continuing to serve its customers and pursuing strategic acquisitions, beginning with Sticker Ranch.

About AAi Labels & Decals

Founded in 1969, AAi Labels & Decals serves customers across North America with custom label and decal products that support safety, compliance, and branding needs. With more than five decades of experience, AAi continues to be recognized for its commitment to quality, service, and innovation. Learn more at www.labelsanddecals.com.

About Sticker Ranch

Sticker Ranch is a modern web-to-print label platform providing customers with quick-turn, high-quality custom labels. Through its intuitive e-commerce portal, Sticker Ranch makes it simple for customers to design, order, and receive labels on demand. Learn more at www.stickerranch.com.

About Portrait Capital

Founded in 2022, Portrait Capital is a private equity firm that partners with founders and families to build enduring businesses. The firm acquires niche industrial and business service companies, honoring their legacy while providing the resources and expertise to accelerate growth. With a long-term orientation and collaborative approach, Portrait Capital supports leadership, strengthens businesses, and drives strategic expansion. Learn more at www.portraitcap.com.

Media Contact:

Portrait Capital

Justin Burris

[email protected]

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SOURCE Portrait Capital