LKQ Europe, a Switzerland-based distributor of automotive aftermarket parts for cars, commercial vans, and industrial vehicles in Europe and a subsidiary of LKQ Corporation, has announced that it has expanded its presence in the European salvage business with the acquisition of Rhenoy Group, a Dutch supplier of remanufactured engines and recycled OEM car parts, according to a press release dated 2 February by Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). The Rhenoy Group operates...

Horizon Global, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of branded towing and trailering equipment, announced it will be acquired by First Brands Group, a global automotive parts manufacturer for the automotive aftermarket, according to a press release dated 3 January. The terms of the transaction include an all-cash tender offer, which upon successful closing will entitle each stockholder of Horizon Global’s common stock to receive cash consideration of USD1.75 per share, the release ...

Dayco, a US-based engine products and drive systems supplier for the automotive and aftermarket industries, has announced the appointment of Craig Frohock as CEO of Aftermarket and Belts, according to a press release 25 January. Craig will be responsible for the business unit’s global operational performance and strategic direction. For the past six years Craig has held several senior leadership roles with Tenneco. Most recently he was the Group Vice President and General Man...

Inchcape, a United Kingdom–based independent, multibrand global automotive distributor, announced that it has completed its acquisition of Derco, an automotive distributor in Latin America with operations in Chile, Peru, Colombia, and Bolivia, in what is Inchcape’s biggest such deal since 1967, according to a press release dated 3 January. The move is expected to extend Inchcape’s distribution leadership in LATAM, bringing significant additional revenue and margin accretive profit to the G...

Inchcape, a United Kingdom-based independent, multi-brand global automotive distributor, announced an agreement to enter into a joint venture with CATS Group of Companies and also announced a decision to acquire a controlling stake in CATS, a distributor of luxury vehicles in the Philippines, according to a release dated 17 January. The deal is claimed to expand Inchcape’s global distribution footprint as it enters the Philippines, further building on its presence in the APAC region. It wil...

German components supplier and filtration expert MANN+HUMMEL has announced a strategic investment in M-Filter Group, a key filter manufacturing company in Northern and Eastern Europe with several production facilities in Finland and Lithuania, according to a press release dated 10 January. The company specializes in different areas of filtration, including air ventilation filters, HEPA (High Efficiency Particle Arresting) filters and oil/hydraulic filters for engines. While Finnish filtration...

European automotive springs manufacturer Lesjöfors Group has announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire 100% of the shares in in Amatec B.V., a Dutch spring distributor, according to a press release dated 4 January. The acquisition was done via Alcomex, a Dutch manufacturer springs, that Lesjöfors acquired in July 2021. With the acquisition, Alcomex, and the Lesjöfors group, strengthen the distribution capabilities of stock springs, in line with its ambition to build the leading ...

Nordic Capital, a private equity investor, has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Autocirc, a Nordic group that offers reused and recycled spare parts to the automotive industry, from the Nordic sustainable investment fund Alder, according to a press release dated 15 December. The investment is made in partnership with Autocirc's founders Johan Livered and Mattias Pettersson and aims to accelerate the company's growth plans and further strengthen its circular offering ...

Relais Group Plc, a spare part distributor and provider of repair and maintenance in the Nordic vehicle aftermarket, has acquired a Danish company S-E-T A/S (also known as S-E-T) from B&S Holding, owned by Steen and Birgitte Hansen, according to a press release dated 12 December. Located in Aarhus, Denmark, S-E-T is an importer and wholesaler of electrical equipment, such as rear-view and side-view cameras, inverters and battery chargers for heavy commercial vehicles and the marine sector...

The Parts Authority, US-based automotive and truck parts distributors to the aftermarket industry, has announced the acquisition of B&L Auto Parts and Paint, according to a press release dated 16 December. B&L Auto Parts and Paint, which has been based in the US state of Maine for over 47 years, was founded in 1975 as a small independent parts store. It now has a 22,000-square-foot facility offering a large selection of parts, specialty products, and customer service, the release adde...

Bosch Global Software Technologies (BGSW) has inaugurated its new smart campus in the southern Indian city of Hyderabad, which will focus on automotive engineering and digital enterprise, Business Standard reported on 14 December. The company aims to raise the workforce of 3,000 professionals by 2025 for the center. “We believe that with our presence in Hyderabad, BGSW will be able to bring software centric innovation to products for both Indian and global markets of Bosch,” sai...

Cazoo Group Ltd, an online car retailer, has sold its Spanish subscription business, Swipcar, to Renting Finders S.L., according to a press release dated 15 December.  Cazoo is an independent used car retailer. Renting Finders S.L is a vehicle-leasing marketplace based in Spain and Portugal. The company has 4,000 customers and a team of 40 people located in Madrid and Lisbon.  Significance: The disposal is a further step in Cazoo’s withdrawal from mainland Europe...

Michigan-based global automotive component supplier BorgWarner Inc. has acquired Switzerland-headquartered Drivetek AG for CHF35.00 million (USD37.31 million), the company announced on 2 December 2022. BorgWarner said that while it has paid CHF25.00 million (USD26.65 million) at the closing of the transaction, the remaining CHF10.00 million would be paid in the form of contingent payments over the next three years. Commenting on the acquisition, Frédéric Lissalde, president and...

American automotive car retailer, Lithia & Driveway (LAD), announced that the company has expanded into Colorado, after purchasing Ferrari of Denver, LAD's first Ferrari store, according to a press release dated 6 December. Ferrari of Denver will specialize in personalized, in-home customer experiences covering the full ownership lifecycle. The only Ferrari location in the greater Rocky Mountains region, this store boasts three Ferrari-certified technicians and a Bentley master-...

Aptiv has completed the acquisition of Wind River, it said in a press release on 23 December. The transaction is valued at USD3.5 billion, instead of the initial purchase price of USD4.3 billion agreed to in January 2022. “The automotive industry in particular continues to be transformed by the accelerated shift to software-defined vehicles. Empowering our customers to capitalize on this transition requires not only a next-generation hardware architecture, but also a cloud-native software a...

Recochem, a Canadian company engaged in manufacturing, marketing, and distributing automotive aftermarket and household fluids announced that it has completed the acquisition of Torque Detail, a brand of automotive detailing products, via a press release dated 12 December. The company says that Torque has a strong reputation for outstanding quality and service and offers a breadth of ceramic coatings, exterior and interior cleaners, and detailing accessories. Torque is a digitally native...

Stellantis has begun exclusive negotiations with Faurecia and Michelin to acquire a significant stake in Symbio, a Faurecia – Michelin joint-venture (JV) company focused on zero-emission hydrogen mobility, the carmaker announced on 23 December 2022. The transaction is expected to be wrapped up in the first half of 2023 and is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals, Stellantis said. “Symbio’s technical roadmap perfectly matches with Stellantis’ ...

AutoNation, a US-based automotive retailer has announced its acquisition of an approximately 6.1% minority ownership stake in TrueCar, Inc., via a press release dated 15 November.  Mike Darrow, president and CEO, TrueCar, commented, "We are excited by this announcement from AutoNation, America's leading automotive retailer, as we see their commitment to a great customer experience as fully aligned with the values of TrueCar and our offerings. Our companies believe this opens the doo...

Indian tire manufacturer, Apollo Tyres, inaugurated an advanced tire-testing facility, which is housed at its global research and development (R&D) center in Chennai, India, according to a press release dated 7 December. The new facility will help improve the efficiency and effectiveness of product-development cycle for passenger vehicle and two-wheeler tires, including the ones for electric vehicles (EVs). Daniele Lorenzetti, CTO, Apollo Tyres Ltd, commented, “We strongly foc...

BorgWarner has officially opened a new technical center focused on propulsion technologies and software capabilities in Bangalore, India, the company announced on 8 December 2022. According to the company, the new technical center, which is spread across an area of about 2,460 square meters, will focus on systems software development, fuel-handling design and mechanical simulation for internal combustion engines (ICEs), and hydrogen (H2) engine management systems. The new facility, which will...

US-based vehicle-glass services and recalibration company, Safelite Group, a subsidiary of Belron and owner of Safelite AutoGlass, announced an agreement to acquire the assets of Premium Auto Glass via a press release dated 15 December. Safelite is a subsidiary of Belron.  The combined businesses will offer vehicle-glass repair, replacement, and recalibration services to Colorado customers while growing a successful, caring business. Significance: Premium Auto Glas...

US-based automotive retailer Group 1 Automotive has announced the expansion of its US operations with the acquisition of Mercedes-Benz and Sprinter franchises in Anaheim, California, via a press release dated 1 December.   This acquisition expands Group 1's global relationship with Mercedes-Benz to 17 dealerships in the United States and the United Kingdom. Group 1 owns and operates 204 automotive dealerships, 275 franchises, and 47 collision centers in the US and the U...

AutoNation, a US-based automotive retailer has announced that the company has entered an agreement to acquire RepairSmith, a full-service mobile solution for automotive repair and maintenance, according to a press release dated 12 December.   The acquisition aligns with the company's objective to expand the ability to penetrate its aftersales service market and conveniently respond to customers' needs by broadening the reach of its existing aftersales networ...

Automotive technology company Veoneer announced that it has entered into an agreement with Magna International and under the agreement, Magna will acquire Veoneer's active safety business from SSW Partners, a New York based investment firm for USD1.525 billion, according to a press release dated 20 December. Combining Veoneer's active safety competence and product portfolio with Magna's advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) business will strengthen the combined business and provide custom...

Vertu Motors plc, a UK-based automotive retail group, has announced that it has completed the acquisition of Helston Garages Group Limited, a manufacturer automotive retail group based in the South West of England, according to a press release dated 19 December. With the move, Vertu has acquired 28 franchised sales outlets, adding scale and geographic coverage to its existing footprint of 160 franchised outlets, according to the release. According to the company, the acquisition of Helston is...

MEKO (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, has announced that its Danish subsidiary FTZ has acquired 70% of the leading car accessories company Avant Denmark, according to a press release dated 6 December. Avant Denmark claims to offer the largest range of car accessories to companies and consumers in Denmark through its sales channels that include online sales and via retailers. Through the investment, MEKO aims to strengthen its position in Den...

Motus Holdings Ltd, a South Africa-based automotive group, has announced that it has acquired 100% of Motor Parts Direct (Holdings) Limited, a business-to-business parts distribution business based in the UK, for ZAR3,64 billion (around USD210 million), according to a press release dated 8 December. Effective from 3 October 2022, the acquisition was funded using available cash and banking facilities and is aligned to Motus’ international growth strategy for its aftermarket parts business, a...

German automotive supplier HELLA, which operates under the umbrella brand FORVIA, announced that it has completed the exit from the joint venture ‘HBPO Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH’, according to a press release dated 12 December. Following the approval of the responsible regulatory authorities, the 33.33% share in the joint venture has been successfully transferred to the previous coshareholder Plastic Omnium, the release added. Significance: The purchase price amounts to EUR290 milli...

Auto parts supplier Aptiv announced that it has completed the acquisition of an 85% equity stake in Intercable Automotive Solutions, a high voltage system solutions provider, for EUR595 million (around USD629 million), according to a press release dated 1 December. Aptiv says Intercable Automotive Solutions will enhance its position as a global leader in vehicle architecture systems. Intercable Automotive Solutions will operate as a stand-alone business unit within Aptiv's Signal & Power ...

US-based private equity firm 3 Rivers Capital’s portfolio company AGS Automotive Solutions, a manufacturer and distributor of brake, fuel and transmission lines in the US automotive aftermarket, has acquired BluDot Manufacturing, a US-based brake systems supplier, according to a press release dated 1 December. Headquartered in South Bend, Indiana, BluDot Manufacturing supplies brake systems to all sizes of manufacturers of tow-able recreational vehicles, motor homes, livestock trailers, car...

Sweden-based SKF, a supplier of rolling bearings, seals, mechatronics and lubrication systems, announced that it is continuing to increase its regional capabilities across Asia, through selected investments in its manufacturing and engineering capabilities in the region, according to a press release dated 24 November. In China, SKF has consolidated its manufacturing footprint from 16 to 9 manufacturing sites in the last four years. It said this process has brought together modern manufacturin...

In a press release dated 17 November, Tenneco and Apollo announced that funds managed by Apollo affiliates (the “Apollo Funds”) have completed the previously announced acquisition of Tenneco, a leading designer, manufacturer, and marketer of automotive products for OEM and aftermarket customers. Pursuant to the terms of the transaction, an affiliate of the Apollo Funds acquired all of the outstanding shares of Tenneco stock. Tenneco shareholders are entitled to receive USD20.00 in ca...

Litens Automotive Group, a Canada-based manufacturer of engineered power transmission systems and components, has announced that it has acquired Industrias Dolz S.A, a Spanish-based manufacturer and distributor for automotive water pumps and other powertrain products, via a press release dated 7 November. With a strong distribution network and extensive history in the water pump market, the acquisition of Dolz represents an expansion of the automotive aftermarket business for Litens. As an es...

US-based distributor aftermarket replacement parts, Arrowhead Engineered Products, announced the acquisition of Bihr, a European distributor of parts, accessories and rider equipment for motorcycles, quads/ATVs, bicycles and scooters, according to a press release dated 27 October. Headquartered in Kontich, Belgium, Bihr has a presence in 20 countries and wholesales 350 brands and 200,000+ stock keeping unit (SKUs) to a network of more than 15,000 retail dealers, the release added. “We seek ...

US-based manufacturer and distributor of automotive aftermarket brake, fuel, and transmission lines, AGS Automotive Solutions, has finalized the acquisition of BrakeQuip, the company announced via a press release dated 28 October.  Headquartered in Alcoa, Tennessee, BrakeQuip, LLC is a world leader in DIY manufacturing systems for automotive tubes and hoses. BrakeQuip is also a supplier of specialty fittings and tools for brake specialists.   Significance: The addition ...

Dorman Products, a US-based aftermarket supplier of OE dealer exclusive parts has announced the completion of the acquisition of Super ATV for USD490 million in cash at closing, plus an earn-out of up to USD100 million in the aggregate payable over two years subject to certain performance targets being achieved in 2023 and 2024, according to a press release dated 4 October. Dorman had first announced its decision to acquire Super ATV in a release dated 18 August. Significance: Founded in 2...

UK-based aftermarket logistics provider Carousel Logistics, part of the DANX Carousel Group, has announced that it has acquired Irish full-service transport and logistics company, Alltrans, according to a press release dated 20 September. The acquisition plays a critical role in strengthening Carousel’s operations in Ireland, and right across Western Europe, supporting in the group’s ambition of becoming the European leader for time-critical in-night logistics, the release added. The comp...

Bridgestone Americas has announced an investment of USD60 million to expand its Bridgestone Bandag, LLC manufacturing plant in Abilene, Texas, according to a press release dated 22 September. The 50,000-square-foot expansion of the Abilene plant is aimed at the growing demand for the company’s tread rubber products, driven by the rapid growth of its retread business. The expansion includes an immediate increase in operational activity by running on six- and seven-day production schedules, a...

Michigan-based global supplier of powertrain technologies, BorgWarner and Hubei Surpass Sun Electric (SSE) today announced that they have entered into an agreement under which BorgWarner has agreed to acquire the Electric Vehicle Solution, Smart Grid, and Smart Energy businesses of SSE, according to a press release dated 20 September. The transaction has an enterprise value of up to CNY410 million (around USD58 million), of which approximately CNY267 million (around USD38 million) would be de...

European automotive springs manufacturer Lesjöfors Group has announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire 100% of the shares in Telform, a Turkish spring manufacturer, according to a press release dated 14 September. The move is aimed at expanding its production footprint, in line with its ambition to build the leading spring, wire, and flat strip component group. Telform is a Turkish manufacturer of industrial springs to the domestic and international markets. The customer base is d...

American Tire Distributors (ATD), a US based independent suppliers of tires to the replacement tire market., has announced the completion of the sale of its Canadian subsidiary, National Tire Distributors (NTD) to Groupe Touchette, according to a press release dated 7 September. With the sale of NTD now complete, ATD says it is moving forward as a more focused organization that is better positioned to serve its customers across the US. The company will continue supporting NTD and Groupe Touch...

Japanese tire manufacturing company Bridgestone Americas has announced that Bridgestone Brazil will invest an additional BRL270 million (around USD52 million) in the expansion and modernization of the tire plant in Camaçari, a city in Bahia, Brazil, according to a press release dated 6 September. This brings the company's total investments announced since 2021 to more than BRL970 million (around USD186 million) for the Bahia plant. This second phase of expansion and modernization of the Bahi...

South Korean tire manufacturer Hankook Tire has announced that its board of directors have approved a USD1.6 billion investment to expand its Tennessee plant in the USA, according to a press release dated 29 August. The investment includes the previously planned Phase 2 expansion that will double production capacity of Hankook’s passenger car and light truck (PC/LT) tires and adds a Phase 3 expansion with the company’s first US production of Truck Bus and Radial (TBR) tires. This expansio...

Nippon Piston Ring Co, a Japan-based manufacturer of piston rings, valve seat inserts, camshafts, and other parts primarily for internal combustion engines (ICE), and Japan-based Riken Corporation have announced a basic agreement to establish a joint holding company formed by mutual stock transfer and to consolidate the two companies on equal terms, according to a press release dated 27 July.  The consolidation should allow both companies to focus on increasing the profitability of their...

High Bar Brands, the parent company of Minimizer and Premier Manufacturing, is adding to its portfolio of brands by acquiring Viking Sales, Inc of Brighton, Michigan, according to a press release dated 25 August by GlobeNewswire. Viking is an industry leader in mud flap production and distribution having an established relationships with several original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and aftermarket distribution customers. The company says that, for over 50 years, Viking has provided custom ...

US-based leading global provider of connected fleet and mobile asset management solutions, MiX Telematics, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Trimble's Field Service Management's (FSM) business, according to a press release dated 25 August by PRNewswire. Trimble is an industrial technology company that supports it's customers by providing purpose-built technology products to enterprise lifecycle solutions.  Trimble's Field Service Management (FSM) is an advanced devel...

bp unveiled plans to invest up to GBP50 million (around USD60 million) in a new, state-of-the-art electric vehicle (EV) battery testing center and analytical laboratory in Pangbourne, United Kingdom, according to a press release dated 2 August.  The new facilities will be located at bp’s existing global headquarters for its Castrol business in Pangbourne, Berkshire, and will support the technology, engineering and science roles housed there. The site already undertakes research an...

Sunroof systems supplier, Webasto, has acquired Carlex Glass Luxembourg SA in Grevenmacher (Luxembourg), according to a press release dated 18 August. The site manufactures glass elements for passenger cars, counts many international carmakers among its customers and was previously part of Carlex Glass America LLC, based in Nashville, Tennessee (US). In future, the glass experts will collaborate closely with their colleagues in roof system development and validation at the company headqu...

Dorman Products, a US-based aftermarket supplier of OE dealer exclusive parts has announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Super ATV, LLC (SuperATV), for USD490 million in cash at closing, plus an earn-out of up to USD100 million in the aggregate payable over a two-year period subject to certain performance targets being achieved in 2023 and 2024, as per a press release dated 18 August. SuperATV is a leading independent supplier to the powersports aftermarket&nbs...

All Star Auto Lights (All Star), a specialty distributor of alternative automotive parts and a portfolio company of Atlantic Street Capital (ASC), announced today the acquisition of Blackburn OEM Wheel Solutions, a leading supplier of new and refurbished OEM steel and alloy wheels for the automotive aftermarket, according to a press release dated 16 August by PRNewswire. Blackburn is US-based leading distributors of OEM wheels in the United States and provides OEM wheels (steel...

Groupe Touchette Inc. and American Tire Distributors (ATD) today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement pursuant to which Groupe Touchette will acquire ATD’s Canadian subsidiary, National Tire Distributors (NTD), a release dated 13 July read. Groupe Touchette Inc., is one of the largest Canadian-owned tire distributors servicing to manufacturers, car dealers and independent customers. Led by Nicolas Touchette and Frédéric Bouthillier, the company headquartered...

China’s largest battery manufacturer Contemporary Amperex Technology Company Limited (CATL) plans to invest about EUR7.34 billion (about USD7.5 billion) in setting up a 100-GWh battery plant in Debrecen, east Hungary, the company announced on 12 August 2022. “Subject to the shareholder meeting approval, construction of the first production facilities will start within this year,” CATL said in an official statement last week. The planned battery plant in Hungary will be spread across an ...

FleetPride, Inc., a US-based distributor of truck and trailer parts and service in the independent heavy duty aftermarket, has announced the acquisition of L&L Distributors, according to a press release dated 9 August. L&L Distributors is a parts supplier for medium to heavy duty trucks. Founded in 1985, L&L Distributors has provided specialized parts in Pompano Beach, Riviera Beach, and Fort Pierce, Florida for over 37 years. As a part of FleetPride, L&L Distributor...

Dayco, a US-based engine products and drive systems supplier for the automotive and aftermarket industries, and Hidden Harbor Capital Partners, a private equity firm announced the signing of a definitive agreement, pursuant to which Hidden Harbor will acquire Dayco, according to a press release dated 3 August. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is currently expected to be completed in the third quarter of calendar year 2022. Dayco is being advised by Skadde...

Cummins, a US-based power solutions provider, has announced that it has completed the acquisition of Meritor, a leading global supplier of drivetrain, mobility, braking, aftermarket and electric powertrain solutions for commercial vehicle and industrial markets via a press release dated 3 August.  The acquisition of Meritor is expected to be immediately accretive to Cummins’ adjusted EPS and generate annual pre-tax run-rate synergies of approximately USD130 million by year three after ...

Michelin Group has acquired RoadBotics, a US start-up specializing in the image analysis of road infrastructures, a press release dated 11 July read. RoadBotics’ computer vision technology transforms visual data from road infrastructures collected with cameras, mainly with smartphones, into actionable data to enable decision-making by road infrastructure managers. The company released an interview  with Lorraine Frega, member of the Group Executive responsible for D...

US-based provider of vehicle maintenance, repair, tire sale, and tire replacement, Sun Auto Tire & Service Inc., has announced the expansion of its Sun Auto Service and Goodguys Tire & Auto brands with new store openings in Las Vegas, Nevada, and Visalia, California, via a press release dated 8 August.  Sun Auto Service #2060 opened on 16 July 2022, and is located at 3340 W. Cactus Ave., Las Vegas, Nevada, 89141. The 11th Sun Auto location in the Las Vegas area, it has 14 ba...

Valvoline, a US-based supplier of lubricants and automotive services, announced that it has reached a definitive agreement with Aramco for the sale of Valvoline's Global Products business for USD2.65 billion in cash. Following the closing of the transaction, Valvoline will own the Valvoline brand for all retail services purposes globally, excluding China and certain countries in the Middle East and North Africa, while Aramco will own the Valvoline brand for all products uses globally. Both co...

German automotive supplier HELLA, which operates under the umbrella brand FORVIA, announced that it has agreed the sale of its 33.33% stake in ‘HBPO Beteiligungsgesellschaft mbH’ to its co-shareholder, Plastic Omnium, according to a press release dated 28 July. The agreed purchase price amounts to EUR290 million (USD296 million) (cum dividend of around EUR8 million) and the transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals. Closing is expected in the fourth quarter of 2022, according ...

Vitesco Technologies has inaugurated a new manufacturing plant in Talegaon, near Pune, India, according to a news report published by Autocar Professional on 15 July. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Klaus Hau, member of the Executive Board at Vitesco Technologies, and Anurag Garg, managing director and country head of Vitesco Technologies India, among other dignitaries. According to the report, Vitesco Technologies’ new plant in Pune is spread across 20 acres and will employ over ...

SPS Commerce, Inc, a leader in retail cloud services, announced the acquisition of GCommerce, a leading EDI provider within the automotive aftermarket industry, according to a press release dated 20 July.  GCommerce customers will have access to the industry’s broadest trading community, which includes more than 105,000 trading partners in over 80 countries. For the third quarter of 2022, SPS Commerce anticipates the acquisition will add approximately USD1 million of revenue and exp...

Canada-based automotive aftermarket parts supplier Uni-Select acquires Maslack Supply Limited and related real properties, according to a press release dated 25 July.  Maslack was founded in 1959 and has grown to include 13 locations across northern Ontario, over 200 dedicated employees, and over C$52 million dollars of revenue for its fiscal year ended 31 January, 2022. Following the transaction, Maslack’s core management will remain in place and will keep leading operations. ...

Arnold Motor Supply, US-based automotive distributor and repair service provider, has announced the purchase of Sioux City-based Motor Parts Central and its sister company Northern Auto Parts via a press release dated 18 July.  Northern Auto Parts will continue to operate within the same building and is a different type of expansion for the company. Northern is a national online retailer, specializing in engine rebuild kits and engine parts. It provides engine rebuilding and restora...

MEKO (previously Mekonomen Group), an automotive spare-parts distributor based in Sweden, has announced that it has entered into an agreement to acquire Koivunen, a provider of automotive spare parts and related services in Finland and Estonia, with operations also in Latvia and Lithuania, according to a press release dated 14 June. The enterprise value is EUR122 million (around USD125 million) on a cash and debt free basis. Through the expansion, MEKO says it will have a presence around the ...

Sensata Technologies, a US-based supplier of sensors and sensor-equipped solutions to the automotive industry, has announced that it has completed the previously announced acquisition of Dynapower Company, a provider of energy storage and power conversion solutions from private equity firm Pfingsten Partners for USD580 million in cash, according to a press release dated 13 July. Dynapower provides energy storage and power conversion solutions including inverters, converters, rectifiers and cu...

German lighting major OSRAM has announced the closing of the sale of the Automotive Lighting Systems (AMLS) business to Plastic Omnium, according to a press release dated 1 July. OSRAM will continue to be a key supplier of automotive LED and optical components to Plastic Omnium, the release added. AMLS was established on 1 October 2021 following the dissolution of the OSRAM Continental joint venture. AMLS combines lighting technology with electronics and software to develop smart and innovati...

US-based provider of vehicle maintenance, repair, tire sale, and tire replacement, Sun Auto Tire & Service Inc., has announced the acquisition of Coopers Auto Repair Specialists, a full-service auto repair brand with two locations in the state, according to a press release dated 13 July.  The two locations feature a total of 22 bays and are located at 1718, 103rd Street E in Tacoma, Washington, and 5325,122nd Street E in Puyallup, Washington. Casey Cooper, former co-owner of ...

Contemporary Amperex Energy Service Technology Ltd. (CAES), a wholly owned subsidiary of the world’s largest EV battery maker, Contemporary Amperex Technology Company Limited (CATL), has launched its EVOGO battery swap services in Hefei, the capital of east China's Anhui Province, the company announced on 18 June 2022. The company said that it has installed and started operations at three EV battery swap stations in Hefei so far, which becomes the second city after Xiamen where CATL has l...

European automotive springs manufacturer Lesjöfors Group has announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire the assets and operations of John Evans’ Sons Inc, a US spring manufacturer, according to a press release dated 28 June. The company provides a range of springs and pressings to customers in diverse industries such as automotive, agriculture, construction, medical, oil and gas, power, etc. Under Lesjöfors Automotive, the company manufactures and distributes springs for th...

Driven Brand Holdings, a US-based automotive service company, has announced the acquisition of Indiana-based Perfection Auto Glass, via a press release dated 16 June. The total addressable market for auto glass repair in North America is approximately USD5 billion and growing, according to the release. Perfection Auto Glass, which was founded almost 20 years ago and is claimed to be one of the largest locally owned auto glass companies in Indianapolis, will be reported in Driven Brands’ Pai...

Polaris, a US-based powersports company, has announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Transamerican Auto Parts (TAP) business to Wheel Pros, a designer, manufacturer and distributor of proprietary branded aftermarket vehicle enhancements for light trucks, sport utility vehicles (SUVs), passenger cars and ATVs/UTVs, according to a press release dated 16 June. The transaction includes TAP’s full portfolio of operations, including all brands, product lines, manufac...

US automotive OEM components and aftermarket ride control and emission products manufacturer Tenneco announced that its shareholders voted to approve Tenneco's pending acquisition by affiliates of Apollo Global Management at Tenneco's annual meeting of shareholders held on 7 June, the day of issuance of the press release announcing the same. As previously announced, this transaction was unanimously approved by Tenneco's Board of Directors, who recommended that the Company's shareholders appro...

Symbio, a Faurecia and Michelin joint venture (JV) company, and Schaeffler have signed an agreement for establishing an equal JV company to produce fuel cell bipolar plates (BPP) for global mobility and energy solutions, Schaeffler announced on 7 June 2022. The new JV company, which will be located in Haguenau, France, will be established and become operational under the brand name Innoplate by the end of 2022. Meanwhile, start of production is planned for early 2024 at its Haguenau-based pro...

Shell Retail and Convenience Operations, a wholly owned subsidiary of Shell Oil Products US, announced that it has completed the acquisition of certain company-owned fuel and convenience retail sites from the Landmark group of companies, according to a press release dated 1 June. The acquisition also includes supply agreements for the independently operated fuel and convenience sites. On 26 October 2021, Shell announced it had reached an agreement to purchase the Landmark fuel and convenience ne...

Myers Industries, Inc., a US-based manufacturer of wide range of polymer products for automotive, industrial, commercial, and consumer markets has acquired the assets of Mohawk Rubber Sales of New England Inc., according to a press release dated 1 June by BusinessWire. Mohawk Rubber Sales is a leading auto aftermarket distributor with a strong distribution network in the United States.  Mohawk will be integrated into Myers’ Distribution segment. The transaction provides ...

Mobile vehicle services and technology marketplace Wrench has completed the acquisition of mobile vehicle repair network YourMechanic, according to a press release by BusinessWire dated 2 June.  YourMechanic has more than 350 technicians in 30 states delivering services to more than 290,000 customers, and the combined company will reach more than 35,000 zip codes and deliver services to more than 20,000 private and fleet vehicles per month. YourMechanic will strengthen&nbs...

Valvoline, a US-based supplier of lubricants and automotive services, announced that it has purchased the outstanding 50% interest in its VCA Solutions joint venture from its former joint venture partner, according to a press release dated 24 May. VCA Solutions is a distributor of top-tier automotive batteries and battery testing equipment. The purchase was finalized, effective 1 May. According to the company, nearly all of the 290 million vehicles on US roads have lead-acid batteries, a...

American Tire Distributors (ATD) and Monro, Inc have announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement pursuant to which ATD will acquire Monro’s wholesale tire distribution assets, operating under the Tires Now, according to a press release dated 19 May. Under the terms of the transaction, ATD will pay Monro USD105 million in cash for the assets under the Tires Now operations and for certain assets under Monro’s internal tire distribution operations. The transaction is expecte...

ATC Drivetrain, a US-based remanufacturing solutions provider, announced via a press release on 18 May that it has acquired Global Battery Solutions (GBS), a Holland, Michigan-based company that provides battery life-cycle management and EV component services. According to the release, GBS has an established history of strong relationships with OEMs, a technically innovative culture, and a strong capability set in energy storage systems and energy grid interface. In addition to automotive ele...

Relais Group Plc, a spare part distributor and provider of repair and maintenance in the Nordic vehicle aftermarket, has completed the acquisition of the entire share capital of the Swedish firm Skeppsbrons Jönköping AB, according to a press release dated 24 May. The purchase price of the entire stock of Skeppsbrons was SEK87.6 million (USD8.8 million), of which MSEK 14.0 was paid by shares in Relais and SEK73.6 million in cash. Relais paid the share component of the purchase price by ...

AUTOBACS Seven, a Tokyo-based car parts and accessories retailer, has announced that it has expanded its presence in Thailand with the opening of its 34th store, according to a press release dated 28 April. The newly opened store, called ‘AUTOBACS talat lunlogi clone 4’, was inaugurated on 4 April and is located in Pathum Thani province, adjacent to the northern part of Bangkok’s capital. Significance: According to the release, the Pathum Thani province is easily accessible from the ...

US-based provider of vehicle maintenance, repair, tire sale, and tire replacement, Sun Auto Tire & Service Inc., announced that it will expand into Oregon and grow its footprint in the state of Washington with the acquisition of Good Neighbor Tire & Auto Service, a full-service tire and automotive repair brand in greater Portland and Seattle, according to a press release dated 18 May. Its four locations are now a part of Sun Auto Family of brands. The four stores feature a total ...

Shell Overseas Investments B.V. and B.V. Dordtsche Petroleum Maatschappij—subsidiaries of petrochemical company Shell—have signed an agreement to sell Shell Neft LLC, which owns Shell’s retail and lubricants businesses in Russia, to PJSC Lukoil, according to a press release dated 12 May. PJSC Lukoil Oil Company is a Russian multinational energy corporation headquartered in Moscow, specializing in the business of extraction, production, transport, and sale of petroleum, natural gas, and pet...

Blink Charging Co, a US-based owner, operator, and provider of electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment and services, announced via a press release dated 26 April that its wholly owned European subsidiary, Blink Holdings BV, has acquired Electric Blue Ltd. (EB Charging), a provider of integrated EV charging and sustainable energy solutions based in the United Kingdom. According to the company, the acquisition marks its first entry into the UK and adds more than 1,150 chargers, installed or co...

NiTEO Products, a leading formulator, packager and marketer of automotive appearance, air care and performance/maintenance chemical brands, today announced the sale of Hi-Tech Industries (Hi-Tech) to MPE Partners (MPE), according to a press release by PRNewsWire dated 5 May. Hi-Tech, based in Farmington, Michigan, is a leading provider of a full line of branded professional car care product accessories and specialty aerosols to the automotive appearance industry. Hi-Tech will continue...

Global component supplier to automotive and industrial sectors Schaeffler AG has opened a state-of-the-art ‘Tool Technology Center’ at its facility in Höchstadt an der Aisch in Germany, the company said on 3 May 2022. The company said it plans to manufacture precision tools for its global production network at the said facility, which is spread across an area of over 8,000 square meters. The said precision tools are slated for deployment for the strategic future target areas of electric ...

US-based online retailer of truck parts and accessories, RealTruck, has added a new distribution center in Salt Lake City, Utah, according to a press release dated 3 May by PRNewswire.  According to the company, the 230,000-square-foot warehouse, opened its doors on April 1. It is twice the size of RealTruck's other facilities in Springfield and Jasper. This additional capacity and strategic location will enhance RealTruck's ability to make timely deliveries...

US-based car wash company, Mister Car Wash announced the successful acquisition of Speedwash, which includes four express exterior locations in Victorville and Hesperia, California, according to a press release by BusinessWire dated 29 April.  Customers of Speedwash can expect the business to continue operating as normal in the near term. Throughout the coming months, Mister will be working with the team to rebrand the stores and optimize service and product offerings as they fully integ...

Global supplier of automotive fluid handling components TI Fluid Systems (TIFS) has announced that it will open an e-mobility innovation center (e-MIC) in Rastatt, Germany, via a press release dated 25 April.  The centerpiece of the facility is a pioneering high-resolution LED screen for 3D simulation. Measuring 9 meters by 2.5 meters, the 9-megapixel panel enables engineers to display, analyze, and redesign 3D models of thermal systems and components within a full electri...

Plastic Omnium has acquired Varroc’s automotive lighting business, Varroc Lighting Systems (VLS) for EUR600 million (USD635.43 million), according to a press release published by Plastic Omnium on 29 April. The transaction includes 100% ownership of VLS’ companies in Europe, Americas, and North Africa and research and development (R&D) center in Pune, India, press release added.   Laurent Favre, CEO of Plastic Omnium said, “With Varroc Lighting Systems, Plastic Omnium become...

US-based manufacturer of aftermarket oil pumps and related products, Melling Engine Parts, has acquired Casalandra Metal Stamping in order to expand its operations, according to a press release dated 25 April.  CEO Mark Melling commented that, “Casalandra has been a key vendor to Melling for years and we were excited when the opportunity presented itself. We are committed to becoming basic in more product lines and of course love the fact the parts are made in USA".  Merit Wish...

FleetPride, Inc., a US-based distributor of truck and trailer parts and service in the independent heavy duty aftermarket, announced that it has acquired the assets of Murray’s Diesel Repair of Shreveport, Louisiana, via a press release dated 26 April.  The Murray family will continue to operate Murray’s Auto Repair in Shreveport, La., which focuses on the repair of light duty vehicles.  Significance: Commenting on the move, chief executive officer Mike Duffy s...

European automotive aftermarket group Alliance Automotive Group (AAG) has announced that it has finalised the acquisition of Knoll GmbH and Transport + Logistik Schleiz and, at the same time, parts of automotive parts distributor Manfred Knoll Holding were acquired as part of an asset deal, according to a press release dated 26 April. Manfred Knoll has managed Knoll as managing partner for more than 60 years. The company operates in Bavaria, Berlin, Brandenburg, Saxony, and Thuringia and oper...

PARTS iD, a US-based e-commerce company for the automotive parts, accessories and the aftermarket, has added over 5,000 new locations to its tire installation network during the first quarter of 2022, bringing the total number of participating installers to 7,270, according to a press release dated 19 April. With this expansion, the company says it has an increase in installer density and service coverage in highly populous states and metropolitan areas including Texas, metro New York, Southe...

US multinational conglomerate corporation, 3M, announced via a press release dated 25 April acquisition of LeanTec technology, advancing inventory management and digital solutions for auto body shops. LeanTec is a provider of digital inventory management solutions for the automotive aftermarket segment in the United States and Canada. 3M uses the term "connected bodyshop" to describe a new level of digital tools and connectivity that enable and streamline shop operati...

US-based distributor of replacement parts, components, and systems, LKQ Corporation, has announced that it has completed its previously announced agreement to sell PGW Auto Glass (“PGW”), a distributor of aftermarket glass to the North American automotive sector, to One Equity Partners via a press release dated 20 April.  LKQ will report the financial information for the PGW glass distribution business through the April 18, 2022 closing date in the continuing operations section of it...

DexKo Global Inc., a market player in engineered trailer running gear, chassis assemblies, and related components, announces that its wholly-owned subsidiary, DEXTER Axle Company LLC ("DEXTER"), has acquired the business and assets of Premium Supply Ltd., according to a press release by PRNewsWire dated 13 April. Premium Supply Ltd. is specialized in custom trailer hoists, hydraulic kits, pumps, controls, and accessories.  The Company has distributed these quality products and ...

Nivel Parts & Manufacturing Co, a US-based manufacturer, distributor, and seller of aftermarket parts and accessories, has acquired EPI Performance, a Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) clutch kit, drive belt, and driveline component supplier, according to a press release dated 13 April. The purchase combines Nivel's manufacturing, sourcing, and distribution capabilities with the reputable EPI brand, according to the release, which added that EPI Performance products are distributed worldwide by ...

Stuttgart-based global supplier of powertrain and thermal components MAHLE said on 7 April 2022 that its electric vehicle (EV) charging division chargeBIG is transformed into an independent subsidiary of the group. The new subsidiary is named MAHLE chargeBIG and the corporate restructuring of the division will enable greater operational freedom, the company said. “This will accelerate the automotive supplier’s transformation into a provider of sustainable mobility solutions and will also ...

India headquartered Apollo Tyres has announced the launch of its digital innovation hub in London, according to a press release dated 21 April.  The innovation hub will use artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies to solve complex manufacturing problems, focused on improving the efficiency, quality and sustainability of its manufacturing practices as part of the company’s digital strategy to implement Industry 4.0. The company has invested GBP5 million (USD6.1 milli...