Parker Hannifin has acquired Vansco Electronics, a major developer of rugged electronic controls, displays, terminals, sensors and communication and operator interfaces for heavy equipment. The acquisition forms an important part of Parker's long-term strategy to improve the integration between different motion and control technologies, in particular between hydraulics and electronics in the mobile sector, where Vansco offers products and systems for a wide range of applications.
Vansco has been designing and manufacturing rugged and sophisticated electronic, electro-mechanical and electro-hydraulic products for over 25 years. The company has facilities in Canada, the USA, Finland, Belgium and the UK, employs over 1000 people and, in the fiscal year ending 31 August 2007, achieved sales of approximately $180million. Many of the company's products are used by OEMs in agricultural, construction, materials handling, bus, RV and speciality truck equipment.
Vansco will become a part of the global operations of Parker's hydraulic technology business. It will complement a broad line of hydraulic components and systems including pumps, motors, valves, cylinders, hydraulic drives, energy recovery systems, and vehicle cooling and engine management systems.
Jeff Cullman, Parker's Group President for Hydraulics, commented: "We are excited to be able to welcome Vansco to the Parker organisation and to strengthen still further the solutions that we offer our customers. In particular, Vansco's range of controls complement our existing IQAN controllers and sensors, allowing us to offer customers integrated motion control systems for mobile equipment, backed by Parker's extensive global support and technical expertise. Additionally, Parker and Vansco share a common customer base, with the combined strength of the two companies enhancing our ability to engineer dedicated solutions that help to improve the productivity and profitability of our customers' products."
Dr Niels Erik Hansen, CEO of Vansco, added: "We have been aware of Parker as the motion and control leader for quite some time. We are pleased that Parker, an established leader in many of Vansco's markets, will significantly expand our capability to service our many valued mobile equipment customers."