Johnson Controls, a leading global supplier of automotive seating systems, interior components and electronics, has completed the previously announced acquisition of the C. Rob. Hammerstein Group, a leading global supplier of high-quality metal seat structures, components and mechanisms based in Solingen, Germany. The European Commission in Brussels, Belgium approved the acquisition on Jan. 14, 2011.
The Hammerstein acquisition enables Johnson Controls' Automotive Experience business to enhance its expertise in metal seat structures and expand into premium vehicle segments. Hammerstein's strong product portfolio and customer base in the premium segment complements Johnson Controls' product portfolio, which is primarily comprised of vehicle segments with high production volumes.
"Our goal is to establish a best-in-class metals organization within the seating components sector," said Beda Bolzenius, Vice President, Johnson Controls and President, Automotive Experience. "The addition of Hammerstein complements our product and technology portfolio, expands our global manufacturing capabilities, and advances our strong market position."
Hammerstein's product capabilities include front seat structures, seat tracks and height adjusters, multi-way adjusters, power gear boxes, as well as special applications such as steering column adjusters. The company's expertise includes the complete product development process, from design and engineering to the manufacture of individual components and complete seat systems.
For Johnson Controls, the combined footprint of the companies creates new opportunities for growth, particularly in emerging markets like China and Eastern Europe. The acquisition includes 11 locations (excluding joint ventures) and approximately 3,600 employees across seven countries worldwide. Johnson Controls will manage the acquisition integration from its Automotive Experience European headquarters in Burscheid, Germany.
