KONINGSHOOIKT, BELGIUM – VDL of the Netherlands and Germany’s Schmitz Cargobull have reached an agreement with the receivers to take over Van Hool.
“We are happy that we can launch a quick restart with VDL Groep and GRW/Schmitz Cargobull,” Van Hool’s receivers announced in a press release after reaching an agreement in principle with these two parties.
COVID-19 and longstanding, unresolved family disputes proved to be too much for Van Hool to go forward under the previous ownership and management.
Despite the loss of over 1,500 jobs, the receivers were satisfied that the takeover of bankrupt Van Hool by VDL and Schmitz Cargobull was the best solution for the remaining employees.
Guido Dumarey teamed up with ABC Companies to submit a bid, but time pressures appeared to play a role as VDL threatened to withdraw completely.
Founded in 1953, VDL Bus and Coach are part of VDL Groep, has over 16,000 employees and operates in 19 countries. It’s headquarters is in the Netherlands. The third generation of the Van der Leegte family is currently leading VDL Groep. The company builds motorcoaches and low-floor transit style buses with various power options.
As the North American distributor of Van Hool motorcoaches, ABC Companies says it is committed to supporting its customers through the transition.
“ABC Companies has been officially notified that the VDL Group is the successful bidder for the Van Hool motorcoach division,” the Orlando-based company said in a statement. “In anticipation of a quick restart, and while the details of the next steps are still unfolding, ABC Companies is committed to ensuring that the transition will be as smooth as possible for our customers. ABC Companies will provide more information as it becomes available.”
