Michigan Instruments Acquires KEM Enterprises

Michigan Instruments has purchased KEM Enterprises, M&A advisory firm Calder Capital announced. Transaction details were not disclosed.

Michigan Instruments manufactures automated CPR devices and lung simulation equipment. Owner Chris Blanker engaged Calder’s buy-side team to acquire a complementary medical device business that could extend his portfolio’s focus on meaningful patient outcomes while keeping the business rooted in West Michigan. Michigan Instruments’ engagement led to Calder Capital sourcing and facilitating the deal.

Founded in 1996, KEM Enterprises manufactures and markets the Osto-EZ-Vent, a trademarked medical device that allows ostomy patients to release built-up air pressure from their ostomy pouches.

“The product has such a loyal following and strong position in the market. That and the fact that there are several avenues for growth to pursue immediately are what sold us on the opportunity,” Blanker stated.

Aaron James said he is looking forward to “exploring new endeavors while also going back” to his professional roots.

Dan Duba of Calder Capital served as the lead Mergers & Acquisitions advisor to Michigan Instruments. The lead director was Parker Schaap, and the lead associate was Tyler Tingley (both of Calder Capital).

Calder’s buy-side team generated 31 off-market seller introductions, leading to 12 client pursuits, four offers on unique businesses, resulting in KEM Enterprises’ acquisition. Calder Capital was initially engaged last September (2025), introduced the two parties in November, and closed the transaction in July. The process moved from engagement to close in approximately nine months.

“Working with Calder Capital was a positive experience from start to finish. The Calder team quickly exceeded my expectations with the quantity and quality of qualified prospects they generated. I truly valued their support and counsel throughout the entire process, right through closing,” Blanker commented. “Dan was a strong advisor and invaluable as an intermediary and facilitator among the various parties, helping keep the process moving forward smoothly. I would highly recommend Calder Capital to anyone considering an acquisition or sale. Their expertise, professionalism, and commitment to their clients made a meaningful difference throughout the process.”

“Michigan Instruments came to us with a clear acquisition thesis: find a complementary medical device company that could expand its portfolio, positively impact patients, and ideally remain rooted in West Michigan,” Duba noted. “KEM Enterprises checked those boxes in a very compelling way. I’m proud we were able to bring these two West Michigan-based medical device companies together.”

“Medical device acquisitions require buyers to assess a unique set of critical factors, including product fit, regulatory requirements, distribution channels, long-term strategic alignment, and financial performance,” Calder Capital Buy-Side Managing Director Sam Scharich said. “Our Buy-Side team executed a focused, proprietary M&A search for our client; we’re proud to help strategic buyers, such as Michigan Instruments, identify and acquire medical device businesses that align with their growth objectives.”

Founded in 1964 and based in Grand Rapids, Mich., Michigan Instruments designs and manufactures automated CPR devices and lung simulation equipment for clinical care, education, biomedical engineering, testing, and research. Its equipment is used by healthcare professionals, educators, engineers, researchers, and emergency responders worldwide.

Based in Ada, Mich., KEM Enterprises manufactures and markets the Osto-EZ-Vent, a trademarked medical device that provides ostomy patients with a simple way to release built-up air pressure from their ostomy pouches. The vent attaches to ostomy pouches from any manufacturer and is registered with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Founded in 2013, Calder Capital is a cross-industry mergers and acquisitions advisory firm with offices across the United States. Calder provides valuation, sell-side, and buy-side services. It advises $1 million to $100 million enterprise value transactions in manufacturing, construction, distribution, and business services. Calder serves business owners, entrepreneurs, family offices, financial buyers, and investors.