The Senior Secured Loan Program (SSLP), jointly managed by an affiliate of Ares Capital and an affiliate of GE Capital, said it closed seven financing commitments totaling $751 million, including refinancing transactions, during the first quarter of 2012. Since January 1, 2010, the SSLP has committed approximately $6.7 billion to middle-market borrowers.

“The SSLP continues to be an attractive option for private equity sponsors seeking larger and more flexible capital solutions without the need for a broad syndication,” said Michael Arougheti, president of Ares Capital.

“In the first quarter of 2012 the SSLP provided seven middle market companies with efficient and timely financial capital to help them grow their businesses,” said Stuart Aronson, president and CEO of GE Capital’s Sponsor Finance business. “The middle market’s growth and stability are fundamental to the U.S. economy and we look forward to continuing to serve these companies through the SSLP.”

Below is a brief description of three recent transactions.

Nivel Parts & Manufacturing Company / Kelso & Company

GE Capital Markets and Ares Capital served as joint lead arrangers and joint bookrunners in a $150 million senior secured credit facility provided by the SSLP to support the acquisition of Nivel Parts & Manufacturing Company, by Kelso & Company. Nivel is a leading provider of golf car aftermarket parts and accessories. In addition, GE Capital, through its GE Antares Capital subsidiary, provided a $20 million senior secured revolving credit facility in support of the transaction.

Pregis Corporation / AEA Investors

GE Capital Markets and Ares Capital served as joint lead arrangers and joint bookrunners in a $142.5 million senior secured term loan led by the SSLP to support the refinancing of Pregis Corporation by AEA Investors. Pregis Corporation is a leading international manufacturer, marketer and supplier of protective packaging solutions. In addition, GE Capital, through its GE Antares Capital subsidiary, provided a $35 million senior secured revolving credit facility in support of the transaction.

Innovative Interfaces / Huntsman Gay Global Capital and JMI Equity

GE Capital Markets and Ares Capital served as joint lead arrangers and joint bookrunners in a senior secured term loan provided by the SSLP to support the acquisition of Innovative Interfaces by Huntsman Gay Global Capital and JMI Equity. Innovative Interfaces Inc. is a provider of technology and services to over 4,500 public, private and academic libraries. In addition, GE Capital, through its GE Antares Capital subsidiary, provided a senior secured revolving credit facility in support of the transaction.