Marlin Equity Partners, a California-based private investment firm, has acquired Ultra Pro, the leading manufacturer of storage products for the sports and gaming collectible markets.  In addition to its production of collecting supplies under its own brand, Ultra Pro has the rights to create licensed storage containers for a number of key hobby brands in the world of non-electronic gaming including such CCG releases as Magic the Gathering, Pokemon, Naruto, and Bella Sara (see 'Bella Sara Signs Up for Licensing').  Ultra Pro has also created a licensed carrying case for WizKids CMG figures (see 'UltraPro Does WizKids Traveling Case').  Some of its CCG collecting supplies feature art by top flight fantasy painters such as Clyde Caldwell, Brom and Larry Elmore.  In addition to its card and gaming collector supplies, Ultra*Pro also produces supplies for storing photographs and multi-media products, and scrapbooking products. 

As part of the acquisition Adam Lerner, who has over 12 years of experience in the consumer products industry, takes over at Ultra Pro as the new Chief Executive Officer. 

Marlin Equity Partners invests 'in businesses across multiple industries that are in the process of undergoing varying degrees of operational, financial or market-driven change,' and 'provides corporate parents, shareholders and other stakeholders with tailored solutions that meet their business and liquidity needs in special situations.'