WINN, MICH.—On Jan. 2, Morbark, a leading manufacturer of tree care, sawmill, recycling, forestry and biomass chipping, and grinding equipment, completed the acquisition of Boxer Equipment, a product line of Mertz Manufacturing that manufactures and globally markets a full line of compact utility loaders (also known as mini-skid steers) and attachments.
As part of the transaction, Morbark has acquired all product designs, intellectual property and manufacturing tools, as well as existing parts, completed units and other inventory.
“In seeking the optimal buyer for the Boxer product line, we looked for a company that had its own manufacturing capability, as well as shared our desire to see the line continue to develop, grow and realize its full potential,” says Steve Ballinger, president of Mertz. “We know without a doubt that Morbark shares this same vision, and will apply the necessary resources to bring it to fruition.”
Manufacturing of the Boxer Equipment line, attachments and aftermarket parts, is currently being moved to Morbark’s 1.1 million-square-foot factory and corporate headquarters in Winn, Mich. As manufacturing of the Boxer line begins in the first quarter of 2013, Morbark will be working with its authorized dealer network to ensure that existing and future customers receive service, after-sales support and parts fulfillment.
“The strong strategic fit between our companies, combined with Morbark’s expanded capabilities in product development, manufacturing and dealer distribution will enable us to efficiently maximize the value and long-term potential of the Boxer product line, allowing it to become one of the market leaders in the compact utility loader category,” says Jim Shoemaker, Jr., president, Morbark.
