Strategic acquisition expands production infrastructure, strengthens industry relationships, and unlocks scale across North America
LOS ANGELES–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Zello, a private investment platform focused on scaling exceptional businesses in the broader entertainment industry, announced today that it has acquired Cinelease, a market leader in lighting and grip rentals, from Herc Rentals (NYSE: HRI). The transaction marks a defining move in Zello’s strategy to support the infrastructure behind content creation — and power the future of global film and television production.
For over 45 years, Cinelease has been a trusted name in production support— renowned for its reliability, deep industry relationships, and service-first mindset. Under Zello’s ownership, the company will continue to be led by industry veterans Mark Lamberton, Chris Rogers, and Gannon Murphy. Built on core values of responsiveness, dependability, and drive, Cinelease offers a robust inventory of lighting and grip equipment and serves as the professional manager of studio facilities owned by leading real estate investors. With operations spanning every major production hub in the U.S. and Canada, Cinelease supports thousands of film, television, and commercial productions annually through its integrated studio and equipment offerings.
Cinelease will operate as a standalone, privately held company backed by Zello’s experienced team. With decades of operational expertise across studio management, equipment logistics, and production infrastructure, Zello will support Cinelease in deepening its market presence while remaining aligned with the needs of filmmakers and crews. This transition positions the company for disciplined expansion and reinforces its commitment to delivering world-class lighting, grip, and studio solutions.
“Cinelease is built on trust—and a team that studios, crews, and producers have relied on for decades,” said Louis Dargenzio, CEO of Zello. “This acquisition is about honoring that legacy while leaning into the future. We believe in this team, we believe in this brand, and we believe in the entertainment industry. We’re excited to drive innovation and growth for our studio and production partners.”
“This marks an exciting new chapter for Cinelease,” said Mark Lamberton, President of Cinelease. “We’re a company built on service, relationships, and delivering when it counts—led by people with a deep understanding of what it takes to make it happen. Zello brings deep respect for our foundation and the operational scale to help us go even further for the entertainment community. Together, we’ll keep raising the bar for production support across North America.”
Zello was advised by Proskauer Rose LLP as legal counsel, EY as accounting advisor, and American Discovery Capital as financial advisor. Financing for the transaction was provided by MidCap Financial, a leading middle-market lender owned and managed by Apollo Global Management. Herc was advised by Sidley Austin LLP on legal matters and Goldman Sachs on financial matters. MidCap Financial was advised by Paul Hastings LLP on legal matters.
About Cinelease
Founded in 1977, Cinelease is one of the most trusted names in production support—recognized for its reliability, deep industry relationships, and unwavering commitment to service. With operations across every major production hub in the U.S. and Canada, Cinelease supplies lighting and grip rentals, expendables, and sound stages to thousands of film, television, and commercial productions each year.
Cinelease also serves as the professional manager of studio facilities owned by leading real estate investors, offering an integrated platform that combines best-in-class equipment and scalable studio solutions. Its foundation is built on responsiveness, dependability, and drive—delivered by a deeply experienced team with an average tenure of over a decade.
From humble beginnings as a mom-and-pop operation to its evolution as an industry leader, Cinelease has remained true to its service-first ethos. Its culture is rooted in loyalty, collaboration, and a passion for supporting storytellers at every stage of production.
Learn more: www.Cinelease.com
About Zello
Zello is a next-generation investment platform where capital, creativity, and operational excellence converge. With core focus areas in content, high-growth businesses, and infrastructure, Zello builds, owns, and scales companies that power industries—starting with entertainment and expanding beyond.
Through an integrated approach, Zello combines disciplined investment, physical assets, and seasoned operating talent to scale proven models and back bold ideas. The platform is purpose built to help exceptional teams unlock long-term value and build enduring businesses.
Rooted in deep industry experience, Zello supports companies through every stage of growth— aligning vision with execution to create lasting impact.
Learn more: www.ZelloGroup.com
Contacts
Media Contact:
Lesley Cerwin / Zello / Lesley@ZelloGroup.com / (310) 245-2386
