Plews & Edelmann, a manufacturer and marketer of power steering components, hoses, automotive fittings and turbo oil lines, has completed its purchase of Blissfield Mfg., a third-generation Tier 1 manufacturer of refrigeration products and condensers.
Founded in 1946 and based in Blissfield, Mich., Blissfield produces hydraulic power steering coolers (also referred to as cooler lines) for original equipment manufacturers. In the transaction, Plews & Edelmann acquired Blissfield’s technology, designs, and manufacturing equipment.
The announcement was made by Dan Billie, Plews & Edelmann CEO, who noted that the acquisition will give Plews & Edelmann the ability to supply all forms of power steering coolers to the aftermarket and OE service parts distributors.
“I am happy that Blissfield Manufacturing’s chairman, Pat Farver, chose Plews & Edelmann as the caretaker of his family business,” Billie said. “This acquisition complements our vision and is a perfect fit for the company as we continue to focus on providing the aftermarket with a total solution to its power steering needs. We are already a leading supplier of power steering hoses, rack and pinion assemblies, pumps, gear boxes, filters, and fluid, so we are excited about the future of this opportunity.”
“The Blissfield acquisition marks a key milestone in the progress of Plews & Edelmann. Under Dan Billie’s leadership, the company has executed on its goal to become a leader in the steering category. We continue to explore other steering opportunities and will be making other announcements soon,” said David Rashid, executive chairman at Plews & Edelmann.
For his part, Farver said he’s thrilled to have found just the right company to take over his family business.
“It only took a few conversations to understand that I wanted the legacy of what my grandfather started in the hands of the Plews & Edelmann team,” he said. “David Rashid and Dan Billie are committed to continuing my vision for the business. It couldn’t be in better hands.”
The new power steering cooler program is now part of the growing Edelmann Elite power steering portfolio, the company said.
