Moving on Relocations and expansions

NEWS

Combining strengths

Atlas Copco acquires compressor business in New Zealand

Nico Delvaux

Atlas Copco, a leading provider of industrial productivity solutions, has acquired the compressor distribution and service business from the Lancaster Group in New Zealand. The acquired businesses are those of Ash Air (NZ) Ltd, Fox Air NZ Ltd, MBAR 2011 Ltd and Ash Air Oil & Gas Ltd.

The businesses, located throughout New Zealand, had combined revenues in the fiscal year 2013 of approximately MNZD 30 (MSEK 162) and around 120 employees. The businesses provide high-quality sales and servicing of industrial compressors and related equipment to a broad range of customers in the region.

“By acquiring this group of high-quality distributors we will further expand and strengthen our presence in New Zealand,” said Nico Delvaux, president of Atlas Copco’s Compressor Technique business area. “These businesses will complement our existing organisation well and will serve as a strong base for further growth.”

The businesses will be part of the Compressor Technique business area. Visit: www.atlascopco.com

Cool-Therm acquires AC AirCon Ltd

Cool-Therm Ltd has acquired AC Air Con Ltd, the specialist supplier of chiller and compressor parts.

The deal enables Cool-Therm, best known for its pioneering development of the Turbomiser chiller, to become a one-stop shop for the supply of parts for all mainstream chillers and compressors.

Importantly, the company will now stock key components for Turbocor-based chillers, including compressors and electrical circuit boards, as well as service spares for all other makes of chillers and compressors, such as Frascold, Dorin, Refcomp and Geoclima.

Ken Strong, managing director of CoolTherm, said: “We are delighted at the acquisition of AC Air Con Ltd, and the additional capabilities it gives Cool-Therm. As one of the first companies in the world to develop and commercialise Turbocor, in the form of the highly successful Turbomiser chiller, we now have several hundred chillers in service across the country.

Cool-Therm will also supply valves, control gear, motor protectors, expansion valves, pressure transducers, fan speed controls and lubricants. Visit: www.cooltherm.co.uk

CUBIC acquires Stanfo

CUBIC-Modulsystem AS has acquired the Elsinore enterprise Stanfo AS. CUBIC is a leading supplier of enclosures for any type of electrical switchboard. With the purchase of Stanfo CUBIC positions itself as a qualified and reliable supplier within customised solutions.

“Stanfo’s product range is a superb supplement to our present programme. CUBIC will gain an even stronger market position within customised solutions, whether they are lacquered or in stainless steel,” says Torben Fristrup, CEO/ managing director of CUBIC-Modulsystem AS.

In the future Stanfo, with around 25 employees, will form part of the CUBIC Group.

Lately, CUBIC has seen a positive growth within customised enclosure solutions. The solutions are applicable in all feasible areas, but are especially used in the pharmaceutical, food processing, electronic and windmill industries, as well as train service and transportation.

“With CUBIC as the new owner we get access to skills and resources which will increase Stanfo’s growth even further,” says Preben Christiansen, managing director of Stanfo. Visit: www.cubic.eu

Electrolux to acquire GE Appliances

AB Electrolux has entered into an agreement to acquire the appliances business of General Electric, one of the premier manufacturers of kitchen and laundry products in the United States. The acquisition enhances Electrolux’s position as a global player in home appliances, offering an unparalleled opportunity to invest in innovation and growth, which will benefit consumers, retailers, employees and shareholders.

“GE’s premium, high-quality appliances complement our own iconic brands and will enhance our presence in North America,” said Keith McLoughlin, president and CEO of Electrolux. “The acquisition, which is our largest ever, strengthens our commitment to the appliance business and also provides Electrolux with the scale and opportunity to accelerate our investments in innovation and global growth.”

The acquisition of GE Appliances is an important step for Electrolux towards realising the group’s vision: to be the best appliance company in the world as measured by customers, employees and shareholders. Visit: www.electrolux.com