July 28, 2025
Hudson Valley Lighting Group Acquires Sonneman
Acquisition expands HVLG’s portfolio alongside CSL, Troy, Corbett, and Mitzi
Hudson Valley Lighting Group has acquired Sonneman, reuniting with a brand that its own founder, David Littman, once helped lead. The transaction marks the end of Sonneman’s seven-year stretch under Dunes Point Capital, a New York–based private equity firm that bought the company in 2018. Terms were not disclosed.
Sonneman, founded in 2003 by modern lighting designer Robert Sonneman, has been known for clean-lined architectural fixtures and system-based LED solutions—offerings that straddle the residential and commercial markets. The brand adds heft to HVLG’s existing lineup, which includes Hudson Valley Lighting, CSL, Corbett, Troy, and Mitzi, each with its own design niche.
“This is not just an acquisition — it’s a strategic return,” said HVLG President Malaina Matheus in a statement to lighting agent partners. “Bringing Sonneman into the group lets us expand our capabilities in architectural and configurable lighting while honoring the design ethos that made the brand stand out in the first place.”
While the lighting industry often crosses state and international lines, this transaction played out entirely within downstate New York. Hudson Valley Lighting Group is based in Wappingers Falls, Sonneman operates out of Middletown, and Dunes Point Capital is headquartered in Rye — all within a 90 mile radius of each other.
Rep Territories in Transition
The deal, however, comes with logistical complexity. HVLG has yet to finalize sales territory realignments for the Sonneman line. Reps were told to hold off on quoting or selling Sonneman products unless specifically directed by leadership.
“We know how important clarity around sales access is,” Matheus said. “We’re working through the rep landscape thoughtfully and will be communicating territory assignments in the coming weeks. Our goal is to ensure alignment across regions and brands while setting every rep up for success.”
The integration is expected to extend beyond sales. HVLG is positioning Sonneman to benefit from its broader operational infrastructure, including marketing, technology, and customer service — though company leadership has signaled that the brand’s creative direction will remain intact.
Dunes Point Exits, HVLG Refocuses
Dunes Point Capital’s sale of Sonneman ends a chapter that saw the brand expand its modular lighting lines and grow its presence in project-based design work. For HVLG, the move represents a continuation of its strategy to build out a diversified, design-centric portfolio—particularly in segments where aesthetic and performance demands are increasingly overlapping.
