Stockton Croft

Stockton Croft is a Partner and founding member of Eagle Merchant Partners (EMP), a private equity firm based in Atlanta, Georgia.12 With over 30 years of experience in private equity and related industries, Croft plays a key role in the firm's leadership and investment strategy.2

Professional Background

Croft co-founded EMP alongside Bill Lundstrom, and together they lead the firm's efforts in investing in lower middle-market franchise, consumer, and industrial companies.1 The firm focuses on partnering with founder-owned businesses in the Southeast United States, targeting companies with $2 million to $20 million of EBITDA.1

Recent Achievements

In July 2023, Croft and his team successfully closed Eagle Merchant Partners I, L.P., the firm's inaugural fund. This fund exceeded its initial target, closing with over $265 million in commitments from a diverse group of investors, including U.S. and international institutions, endowments, foundations, wealth managers, and family offices.1

Investment Philosophy

Under Croft's leadership, EMP applies its "Eagle operating playbook" to create value in its portfolio companies. This approach involves:

1. Building high-performing management teams
2. Investing in portfolio company infrastructure
3. Accelerating growth through acquisitions, new unit development, and organic initiatives1

Croft and his team leverage their deep networks in the Southeast region, which they have developed over more than 20 years of investing in the area. This network provides strong access to business founders and key intermediaries, supporting EMP's investment strategy.1