LCI Industries unveiled a German subsidiary through the company’s acquisition of Schaudt, an electric controls and energy management system supplier.
The move is part of the Lippert Components subsidiary’s larger European strategy, which the company stated will bring its German-based customers closer to business. Schaudt will partner with Lippert Technologies, the company’s North American electronics and technology sector based in Detroit, to offer “globally-aligned” technology and set new product standards, LCI stated.
“The rate at which RVs are adapting electronics is rapidly increasing and becoming more complex by the day,” Schaudt Managing Director Armin Steinmetz said. “Having a global strategy with this new partnership will be a big benefit for customers and end-users alike.”
Lippert’s German operations are expected to be housed in Schaudt’s facilities, located in Markdorf. The acquisition eventually will offer services for all Lippert brands and products in the German market.
“We are excited to welcome Schaudt to the Lippert family, reaching a long-term goal of having operations within Germany,” Lippert President and CEO Jason Lippert said. “I am very impressed with Schaudt’s team – they have excellent leadership and their culture fits perfectly within the Lippert family. Lippert’s goal has always been to be the leading global supplier to the RV industry, and Schaudt helps develop that global footprint with key product and service offerings in the largest RV market in Europe.”
“Schaudt’s excellent reputation for customer service and their great customer relationships were key to this partnership,” said Jim Menefee, Lippert Europe’s group president. “At Lippert, we understand the importance of offering our European customers localized services in their native language, all while maintaining quick reaction times and being as flexible as possible. This acquisition will no doubt strengthen our ability to deliver all of these aspects of business.”
