Novastone Capital Advisors Announces Acquisition Of Total Sales & Marketing, LLC

PHILADELPHIA, PA / ACCESS Newswire / July 10, 2025 / Novastone Capital Advisors (NCA) is proud to announce the successful acquisition of Total Sales & Marketing, LLC (TSM), a respected leader in branded merchandise and custom-decorated promotional products. The acquisition was completed in partnership with Erika O'Brien, who will now step into the role of President and CEO, leading the company into its next phase of growth.

This milestone represents the culmination of approximately a two-year search journey through NCA's operator-led search fund program, designed to match exceptional operators with enduring businesses in need of succession solutions. "We're thrilled to partner with Erika on this acquisition," said Christian Malek, CEO of Novastone Capital Advisors. "Her leadership experience, strategic mindset, and values-driven approach make her an ideal fit to carry TSM's legacy forward while positioning it for national expansion."

From Legacy to Leadership

Founded over 40 years ago by Mark Suchanec, Total Sales & Marketing has earned a reputation for high-quality products and personalized customer service. With Erika O'Brien at the helm, the company will continue to honor its legacy while pursuing new opportunities for growth.

"What drew me to TSM was its meaningful impact - helping companies recognize, reward, and retain their people," said Erika. "I'm incredibly proud to lead a business that plays such a vital role in workplace culture, and I'm grateful to NCA for guiding me through this process." A former startup VP with a track record of leading companies through M&A and scaling high-volume sales programs, Erika brings deep operational experience in product development, overseas sourcing, and enterprise customer relationships.

NCA: A Partner in Every Step

As a non-MBA entrepreneur, Erika found a strategic and empowering partner in Novastone Capital Advisors. Throughout the search and acquisition process, NCA provided hands-on support - from underwriting the investment with rigor, facilitating investor and diligence connections to smooth deal execution. "This wouldn't have happened without NCA," said Erika. "Their insight, resources, and encouragement were critical - especially during the moments when the journey got tough. They helped me build confidence, stay focused, and ultimately close a deal I'm truly excited about. That said, search funds are not for the faint of heart. Success depends on a mix of timing, grit, and a healthy amount of luck."

What's Next for TSM

Under Erika's leadership, TSM will build on its strong foundation to expand its reach as a national leader in recognition and branded merchandise solutions. The company will pursue strategic growth through targeted acquisitions that complement the core business and extend capabilities across new markets and industries. TSM will also continue scaling its sophisticated back-end operations to meet customers' evolving needs while maintaining the exceptional service quality that has built long-standing client relationships.

'We're going to build on TSM's strong foundation and bring it to the next level - while staying true to what makes the company special,' Erika said. 'What excites me most about TSM is the meaningful role it plays in helping other companies celebrate and retain their most valuable asset - their people. As our clients grow, we want to grow with them - offering innovative, efficient, and flexible solutions that reinforce our role as a trusted strategic partner.'"

Deal Support

The acquisition was brokered by Benchmark International. Legal counsel was provided by Smith Hulsey & Busey, and financial and tax diligence was led by UHY Advisors.

About Novastone Capital Advisors
Novastone Capital Advisors (NCA) is a global firm tackling SME succession challenges through our Operator-Led Search Fund Program. We empower mid-career professionals to identify, acquire, and grow established Small to Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) facing succession transitions. By pairing experienced operators with SME owners facing succession challenges and connecting them with our NCA investor network to raise acquisition capital, we ensure smooth business continuity, sustainable growth, and successful leadership transitions.

Learn more at: novastone-ca.com

About Total Sales & Marketing, LLC

Headquartered in Philadelphia, PA, Total Sales & Marketing (TSM) delivers branded merchandise and custom-designed promotional products that strengthen brand identity and enhance recognition. Partnering with manufacturers worldwide, TSM offers a comprehensive range of promotional products across many categories. With a 40-year legacy, the company is known for its creativity, reliability, and personalized service.

Visit: totalsales.com
CEO LinkedIn: Erika O'Brien

Media Contact:
Managing Director
Novastone Capital Advisors
Krishan.Arora@novastone-ca.com

SOURCE: Novastone Capital Advisors

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