Ralph Deger, president of Bushman Equipment, said: “While Bushman and Avon have competing lines of overhead crane related material handling equipment, they rarely compete due to each company’s geographic focus.”
Deger added: “Avon has a respected reputation in the Canadian steel industry while Bushman has developed its market primarily in the United States and Mexico.”
He explained that each company adds to the other’s capability to serve the material handling needs of steel mills, paper mills and other heavy industries. Bushman will introduce its West Bend line of lift tables, upenders, load inverters and mold carts into the Canadian market. Similarly, Bushman will “aggressively market” Avon’s line of coil packaging equipment in the US.
The acquisition combines two companies of similar size. Each has extensive experience in steel, steel processing, paper and heavy manufacturing.
David Lowery, founder of Avon Engineering, will continue with the company, serving as vice president.
Deger viewed the acquisition as an opportunity for growth in both the Canadian and US markets. He plans to maintain sales, engineering and manufacturing operations in both markets. According to Deger, combining the talents of the two companies presents opportunities to increase the services each company can provide to its customers.
