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Danfoss claims lead in hydraulic motors by buying White
Danfoss claims that it has become the world leader in hydraulic motors following approval from the competition authorities for it to proceed with its acquisition of US-based White Drive Products. The bid was announced in July. No financial details have been revealed.
White Drive, based in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, brings a strong product portfolio, expertise and capacity to Danfoss’ global organisation. The business will be integrated into Danfoss Power Solutions, already a strong force in mobile hydraulics for construction, agriculture and other off-highway vehicles.
While Danfoss has a powerful presence in the European market for hydraulic motors, White Drive Products is particularly strong in North America and China. This combined strength and application know-how will target faster growth and market leadership in all regions by offering a more comprehensive product portfolio to the mobile machine industry.
“This acquisition confirms our strategic focus on building leading positions in our core businesses,” says Danfoss’ president and CEO, Niels Christiansen.
“White Drive Products is widely recognised for excellence in hydraulic drive products and is a perfect fit for our mobile hydraulics business,” he adds. “With its integration in our business, we stand even stronger in international markets.”
Privately-owned White Drive Products was founded in 1976 by Harvey and Hollis White Jr. Last year, the company had more than 700 employees and sales of around $100m. White Drive has manufacturing facilities in the US and China, as well as sales and distribution offices in the US, China and Europe.
Co-founder Hollis White sees the acquisition as a growth opportunity for both businesses. “Both companies started in the orbital motor business around 1963 and this is a perfect fit for the two of us to survive in the world challenges,” he says. “It gives us more capacity and investment for greater innovation, market synergies and growth. We are proud that Danfoss has chosen to build upon our legacy of innovation and entrepreneurship.”
