TriMas agrees to acquire HammerBlow

Feb. 1, 2003
TriMas Corp has entered into an agreement to acquire HammerBlow Towing Systems Corp, a manufacturer of towing, trailer, and other vehicle accessories,

TriMas Corp has entered into an agreement to acquire HammerBlow Towing Systems Corp, a manufacturer of towing, trailer, and other vehicle accessories, for approximately $142 million on a debt-free basis.

The acquisition is subject to customary conditions and is expected to close as soon as practicable. HammerBlow and its subsidiaries had estimated annual sales of $108 million for the 12 months ended Sept 30, 2002.

HammerBlow Towing Systems Corp is controlled by The Riverside Co, a private equity firm, and will be integrated into TriMas' Cequent operating group.

The purchase of HammerBlow Towing Systems includes:

  • The HammerBlow Corp, incorporated in 1923 and based in Wausau WI, a producer of agricultural, industrial, recreational, utility, and construction trailer components.

  • Hidden Hitch, headquartered in Huntsville, Ontario, Canada, has been manufacturing a full line of under-the-bumper hitches and towing accessories since 1968.

  • Tekonsha Towing Systems of Tekonsha MI, supplies and manufactures proportional brake controls.

  • SurePull Towing Systems of Sheridan AR manufactures towing hitches and offers accessories and components.