VDL Groep acquires Van Hool, finalizes 10-year distribution agreement with ABC Companies
ABC Companies has entered into an agreement to aquire the Van Hool brand motorcoach division by VDL Groep, coupled with a 10-year exclusive distribution agreement. The acquisition by VDL will work to diversify and enhance Van Hool production capabilities and customer offerings at ABC Companies.
Through the agreement, VDL will be acquiring parts of the bankrupt Van Hool in Belgium and Van Hool’s production facility in North Macedonia. By acquiring the Van Hool plants, VDL Groep plans to further strengthen the activities of its buses division.
“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.”
Around 250 former Van Hool employees will be hired to work on parts production, after-sales, procurement, development and finance for the Van Hool plant in Koningshooikt, Belgium. The acquisition will immediately save around 1,600 jobs in the European bus industry. The amounts involved in the acquisition are not being disclosed.
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.”
The agreement will also utilize ABC Companies for the delivery of Van Hool buses and coaches in the United States and Canada.
ABC Companies will work to create a seamless transition for all customers, maintaining business as usual while utilizing the new capabilities and innovations brought by VDL.
Eman Abu-Khaled | Associate Editor
Eman Abu-Khaled is a recent graduate of Kent State University with a bachelors in journalism. She works through Endeavor Business Media with Mass Transit as an associate editor. Abu-Khaled brings a fresh perspective to the visual side of journalism with an interest in video and photography work.
