The Partner Companies Acquires F&B MFG, Strengthening Precision Metal Forming Capabilities for Aerospace and Defense

CHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Partner Companies (TPC), a global manufacturer, announced today the acquisition of F&B MFG, LLC (F&B MFG), a Phoenix-based specialty metal manufacturer. The acquisition strengthens TPC's aerospace and defense manufacturing capabilities while expanding access to specialized fabrication processes, including hydroforming.

Founded more than a century ago, F&B MFG runs a vertically integrated manufacturing operation. Its core expertise begins with hydroforming, a process that uses pressurized fluid to shape metal into complex geometries with tight tolerances and extends into a full spectrum of value-added metal forming, including engineering, in-house tooling, heat treating and brazing, welding, machining and assembly. The company serves aerospace and defense, technology and transportation customers from its approximately 100,000-square-foot facility in Phoenix, Arizona.

"F&B MFG adds a unique combination of manufacturing capabilities, led by its hydroforming expertise, along with the technical depth and customer relationships that make it a strong fit for TPC and our specialized applications," said Christian Streu, Partner and Chief Financial Officer of The Partner Companies. "Just as importantly, F&B has built an exceptional team and a reputation for quality, reliability and continuous improvement." 

F&B MFG brings extensive experience producing engine and auxiliary power unit (APU) components for both defense and commercial aircraft, supporting applications ranging from helicopters and fighter jets to passenger aircraft. Additionally, F&B MFG is Nadcap accredited for heat treating, welding, nonconventional machining and nondestructive testing. The company recently expanded its machining capabilities to support customers across the information technology hardware and broader electronics sector. 

The acquisition establishes a strategic presence for TPC in Phoenix, one of the nation's fastest-growing advanced manufacturing regions. Sustained investment across aerospace, defense and advanced technology continues to fuel that growth. 

"This partnership represents an exciting opportunity for F&B, our employees and our customers," said Alex Newell, President at F&B MFG. "Joining TPC gives us additional resources to invest in our more than 200 employees and continue to build on the legacy that has defined this business for more than 100 years." 

At the core of the partnership is a shared commitment to operational excellence and customer service. Both organizations prioritize reliability, proactive problem solving and continuous improvement while making long-term investments in the people, equipment and technology needed to support evolving customer needs.

Duane Morris served as legal advisor to TPC and Snell & Wilmer served as legal advisor to F&B MFG.

About F&B MFG LLC
Based in Phoenix, Arizona, F&B MFG LLC (Metal Forming & Beyond) has been in the business of making complex parts and assemblies for the aerospace, defense, semiconductor and transportation industries since 1923. F&B's core expertise begins with being the best at hydroforming complex sheet metal shapes and then goes beyond, offering a full spectrum of metal forming value-added capabilities. All under one roof and backed by four Nadcap certifications, our capabilities include hydroforming, welding, machining, fabrication and assembly, heat treating, laser cutting, FPI, concurrent engineering and tool making. For more information, visit fbmfg.com. 

About The Partner Companies
The Partner Companies (TPC) is a global manufacturer uniting expertise and capabilities to deliver engineered solutions for aerospace, defense, energy, medical and technology industries. Founded in 2010, TPC has grown to include 12 specialty manufacturers in the U.S., U.K., Mexico and Asia: E-Fab, Elcon, F&B MFG, Fotofab, Lattice Materials, L&T Precision, Microphoto, Optiforms, PEI, Pinnacle Precision, Precision Eforming and UPG. TPC's manufacturers bring expertise in photochemical etching, ceramic metallization, crystal growth and electroforming, with deep capabilities in injection molding, machining, metal fabrication and finishing. TPC supports each company with business growth, commercial, finance, human resources, operations, supply chain management and more. For more information about TPC and its specialty manufacturers, visit thepartnercos.com.

Media Contact: Kristin Monroe, [email protected]

SOURCE The Partner Companies