Acquisition strengthens Pursuit’s growing aerospace portfolio
Pursuit Aerospace, a global manufacturer of complex aircraft engine components, has completed the acquisition of Leesta Industries, Inc., marking the company’s fifth acquisition since its establishment in 2023. The transaction represents another strategic step in Pursuit’s growth strategy, expanding its manufacturing capabilities and strengthening its position across the global aeroengine supply chain.
Leesta brings decades of aerospace manufacturing expertise
Founded in 1964 by Ernest H. Staub in the Montreal area, Leesta Industries has evolved into a respected supplier of flight-safety-critical aeroengine components for leading aerospace original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), including Pratt & Whitney.
The company specializes in the precision machining of critical engine components used in both commercial and military aircraft platforms. Over the decades, Leesta has built a reputation for manufacturing excellence and technical expertise within the aerospace industry.
Expanding aeroengine machining and fabrication capabilities
The acquisition enhances Pursuit Aerospace’s aeroengine machining and fabrication capabilities, enabling the company to offer a broader range of products and services to customers across the aerospace engine value chain.
Leesta’s strengths in advanced manufacturing technologies, automation, and production innovation are expected to complement Pursuit’s existing operations while expanding its footprint into the strategically important Montreal aerospace cluster.
According to Pursuit Aerospace, the addition of Leesta will support future growth initiatives and strengthen the company’s ability to meet increasing demand from major aerospace customers.
Leadership highlights strategic benefits
Doug Folsom, CEO of Pursuit Aerospace, described the acquisition as a strong fit with the company’s long-term objectives.
“Leesta represents a highly strategic addition to Pursuit Aerospace that aligns closely with our growth priorities,” Folsom said. “This acquisition expands our component offerings on several key Pratt & Whitney engine platforms, deepens the technical capabilities of our aeroengine machining operations, and creates additional opportunities to leverage Pursuit’s integrated forging and casting capabilities.”
The acquisition is also expected to create new opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and operational efficiency across both organizations.
New growth opportunities for customers and employees
Ernest A. Staub Jr., president and CEO of Leesta, welcomed the partnership and expressed confidence in the company’s future under Pursuit Aerospace.
“Partnering with Pursuit Aerospace creates exciting new opportunities for both our customers and our employees,” Staub said. “I am confident Pursuit’s scale, broad capabilities and commitment to manufacturing excellence will support Leesta’s continued growth and success for years to come.”
Strengthening presence in North America’s aerospace hub
The acquisition gives Pursuit Aerospace a stronger presence in Montreal, one of North America’s leading aerospace manufacturing centers. The region is home to a robust network of aerospace companies, suppliers, research institutions, and skilled talent.
By combining Leesta’s expertise with Pursuit’s growing portfolio of aerospace manufacturing businesses, the company aims to further strengthen its capabilities in critical aeroengine component production and support the evolving needs of commercial and defense aerospace customers worldwide.
