Thursday, October 28, 2010

News: Sapa acquires Thule's Rotherham plant

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Swedish aluminium manufacturer, Sapa, has completed the acquisition of the automotive related integrated roof rail business from Thule.


The deal includes two productions plants, sales, design and engineering resources in Rotherham and in Poland.

With a turnover of 30m Euro, the business unit serves a broad portfolio of large automotive manufacturers with line-fitted roof racks and side-steps for passenger cars.

Thule wishes to focus more on branded consumer related products and retail, and Sapa wants to strengthen its market position in the automotive sector by expanding the customer base, and adding valuable product design competence.

Arne Rengstedt, President Sapa Profiles Europe, said: "We are happy the deal is closed, and that we now can focus fully on the integration of the roof rail business with the rest of our operations.

"There is a growing interest for aluminum solutions within the automotive business, and roof rails is one area where we see exciting opportunities to expand our offering.

"With the integration of Thule's roof rail business we will have a leading position on this market in Europe and will also be able to serve customers globally."

Magnus Welander, President and CEO of Thule Group added: "With the Thule Group's increased focus on branded products designed to make active life easier to enjoy for the consumer, the integrated roof rail business was no longer a core business for us.

"I am happy we have closed this deal with Sapa, as I am convinced they have the strategic focus and competence to take this business further."

Sapa is based in Sweden and part of the large Norwegian group, Orkla. Sapa is the largest aluminium profiles producer in the world with customers in the building, transport, engineering, telecom and home and office industry.

A spokesperson for Sapa said it was their intention to continue the operations and the engineering activities in Rotherham which is on the Barbot Hall Industrial Estate.

Sapa Group website

Images: sapagroup.com

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