Air Waves Inc., a heat-applied graphics manufacturing and screen-printing company, announced that its majority shares have been purchased by Columbus, Ohio, entrepreneurs, Kyle Kantner and Michael Leaventon.

Air Waves founder, Stanley Peterson, will remain with the company as an advisor. Robert Grawe, Chairman & CFO; Kevin Simpson, President & CEO; and Chris Mullins, Chief Creative Officer will remain during the transition period.

Kantner and Leaventon will assume the direct management of the company’s day-to-day operation.

“We’re getting an outstanding product portfolio, manufacturing facility and professional staff,” says Leaventon.

Since 1981, Air Waves, a Columbus-based company, has designed, manufactured and distributed heat transfers used for the decoration of T-shirts and other apparel. In addition, Air Waves was instrumental in the development and distribution of digital heat-transfer paper products and other imprinted sportswear.

Along with its substantial domestic sales, a considerable portion of Air Waves’ business is in international markets. Over the years, the company has sold over one billion transfers in more than 120 countries. Air Waves won the 2001 Governors Award for Excellence in Exporting.

“The quality of the product offerings, already in place, is exceptional,” says Kantner. “We are really bringing new energy to an already very successful company. Our plan is to continue to serve our existing loyal customers while developing new and exciting products for the markets we serve.”

The company also distributes pre-printed licensed apparel under the International Harvester and Farmall™ brand names. In addition, Air Waves markets under the Country Casuals, Solid Light, Rodeo Rags and Dixie Apparel labels. Kantner and Leaventon intend to expand this business, as well.

Air Waves does a significant amount of contract screen printing and custom heat-transfer manufacturing. These two services will remain important business segments for continued growth.

The new owners expect to expand the product offerings to include signage and fulfillment services.

Kantner most recently has served as the vice president of business development for AIP Logistics, Inc. a warehousing and fulfillment company based in Wapakoneta, Ohio. He works closely with company clients on contract negotiations, contract extensions, service and quality assurance. He has a BS in Business Administration from the University of Denver.

Leaventon is the owner of Strategic Advisors LLC, a Columbus consulting company that works with business owners on financial matters with a strong focus on mergers and acquisitions. He has a BS in printing management from Rochester Institute of Technology and an MBA from Case Western Reserve.

For additional information on Air Waves, its business units and products, please contact the corporate offices of Air Waves, Inc. at 7787 Graphics Way, Lewis Center, OH 43035, 740-548-1200, or email kkantner@airwavesinc.com or mleaventon@airwavesinc.com