Lippert Acquires Schaudt – a German RV Parts Supplier
The acquisition is part of Lippert’s strategy to be closer to key German customers.
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LCI Industries through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Lippert Components, Inc. last week announced that its new wholly-owned German subsidiary, LCI Industries GmbH, acquired 100 percent of the shares of Schaudt GmbH Elektrotechnik & Apparatebau.
Schaudt is a leading supplier of electronic controls and energy management systems for the European Caravan Industry. Schaudt has been one of the leading suppliers to the recreational vehicle market in Germany and throughout Europe for more than 40 years.
The formation of LCI Industries GmbH and the subsequent acquisition of Schaudt is part of Lippert’s larger European strategy to be closer to its key German customers and to have local contacts within the country. Industry experts predict Schaudt’s facilities in Markdorf will become the hub for Lippert’s German operations will eventually offer services for all Lippert brands and products for the German market.
Schaudt will also partner with Lippert Technologies, Lippert’s North American electronics and technology manufacturer based out of Detroit, Michigan, to offer globally-aligned technology solutions that will help to set new global standards for these products.
“We are excited to welcome Schaudt to the Lippert family, reaching a long-term goal of having operations within Germany,” said Jason Lippert, President and CEO of Lippert. He continued, “I am very impressed with Schaudt’s team; they have excellent leadership and their culture fits perfectly within the Lippert family. Lippert’s goal has always been to be the leading global supplier to the RV Industry, and Schaudt helps develop that global footprint with key product and service offerings in the largest RV market in Europe.”
Jim Menefee, Group President of Lippert Europe also discussed the acquisition, stating, ”Schaudt’s excellent reputation for customer service and their great customer relationships were key to this partnership. At Lippert, we understand the importance of offering our European customers localized services in their native language, all while maintaining quick reaction times and being as flexible as possible.”
