New Flyer acquires FRP component maker Carlson Engineered Composites

Transit bus and motor coach manufacturer New Flyer Industries Inc. is buying a Winnipeg-based Carlson Engineered Composites Inc. – a manufacturer responsible for a key part of its supply chain – for US$13 million.

“The acquisition of Carlson will allow us to control of one of the more critical commodities in our manufacturing supply chain,” said David White, executive vice-president of Supply Management at New Flyer. “Carlson’s U.S. facilities will also contribute to the company complying with the increasing U.S. content requirements under increased ‘Buy America’ regulations resulting from the 2015 FAST Act for the purchase of transit buses and motor coaches by U.S. federally-funded transit agencies.”

Founded in 1985, Carlson manufactures fiberglass reinforced polymer (FRP) components primarily to original equipment manufacturers of transportation vehicles and agricultural equipment, with 2016 sales exceeding US$38 million. Carlson currently employs over 300 people at three production facilities: in Winnipeg; St. Cloud, Minnesota; and Anniston, Alabama.

New Flyer employs over 5,000 team members and is said to be the largest transit bus and motor coach manufacturer and parts distributor in North America with fabrication, manufacturing, distribution, and service centres in Canada and the U.S.