ABC Companies has landed a 10-year exclusive distribution agreement with VDL Groep after VDL’s acquisition of the Van Hool Brand motorcoach division.
Florida-based ABC Companies has been the North American distributor of Van Hool, a Belgian manufacturer, for decades.
VDL Groep, headquartered in Eindhoven, Netherlands, acquired parts of VanHool after it went into bankruptcy. VDL is also acquiring Van Hool’s production facility in North Macedonia.
“The acquisition and continued partnership with VDL Groep represent a pivotal evolution for ABC Companies, fortifying our market offerings and reinforcing our role as industry leaders in supporting our customers and adopting advanced transportation technologies,” said Roman Cornell, CEO of ABC Companies. “This collaboration not only enhances our capabilities but also aligns with our commitment to innovation, customer service and quality, ensuring we meet the evolving needs of our customers.”
By acquiring these Van Hool plants, VDL Groep plans to strengthen its buses division. The acquisition will save the jobs of about 1,600 Van Hool workers.
The amounts involved in the acquisition are not being disclosed.
VDL Group has about 15,000 employees and a presence in 19 countries.
Expanding portfolio
The acquisition by VDL, an international industrial family business founded in 1953, is a significant step toward diversifying and enhancing Van Hool production capabilities and customer offerings at ABC Companies.
The Van Hool brand and its current models will join the existing VDL portfolio of motorcoach and transit/low floor offerings.
VDL Groep sees this acquisition as an opportunity to extend its reach and impact in the transportation industry.
“Our mission extends beyond manufacturing advanced vehicles; we are dedicated to improving connectivity and environmental sustainability through our products,” said Willem van der Leegte, President and CEO of VDL Groep. “Partnering with ABC Companies leads to strength through cooperation for both companies in terms of markets and product portfolios.”
As ABC Companies integrates the VDL-owned Van Hool brand, it is promising customers a seamless transition, maintaining business as usual while embracing the enhancements brought by VDL.
