Under the leadership of new president Michael Militello, Waltco Hydraulic Liftgates is preparing to merge with Ultron Lift Corp. Both liftgate companies are members of the Hiab Division of the Cargotec Corporation. Militello also serves as president of Ultron Lift Corp., which was acquired by Cargotec Corporation in March of 2008.
"Waltco is a leader in the U.S. liftgate market, while Ultron Lift Corp. is a leader in Canada. A unified company will create a dominant North American presence," said Militello.
The new company will continue as Waltco Lift Corp. Plans call for a combined product line, based on the products that provide the highest value to the customer. Merging the two companies will also result in a more comprehensive sales and support network throughout North America.
"Our customers will benefit from enhanced service and support, wherever they are located," said Militello.
The new company will be headquartered in Tallmadge, Ohio, at the site of Waltco's current headquarters. Manufacturing will continue at Waltco's Tallmadge facility, as well as at Ultron's Buffalo, N.Y. plant.
A new corporate identity will emerge in the coming months, which combines the Waltco name with the red logotype used by the Hiab Division. Hiab has used this identity format to symbolize strength and stability since the mid 1950s.