Colson Group Acquires Forearm Forklift Through Their Retail Subsidiary Shepherd Hardware

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Colson Group Acquires Forearm Forklift Through Their Retail Subsidiary Shepherd Hardware.

Oak Brook, Il – October 31, 2024 – Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel solutions, through its retail subsidiary Shepherd Hardware, is pleased to announce the acquisition of Forearm Forklift. This acquisition broadens Shepherd Hardware’s retail product offerings in the material handling space, complementing the ergonomic solutions of its parent company, Colson Group.

Forearm Forklift has built a trusted reputation for its innovative lifting straps, designed to improve safety and reduce strain during material transport. As Forearm Forklift’s products become part of Shepherd Hardware’s portfolio, Shepherd Hardware will support the current distribution and anticipates expanding through the extensive Colson Group network and global footprint. This shift allows for greater market reach while ensuring that Forearm Forklift’s legacy of ergonomic innovation is carried forward.

“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve built with Forearm Forklift and how we’ve helped make lifting safer for so many people. I’m confident that under Shepherd Hardware, the brand will continue to thrive while expanding into new markets,” said Mark Lopreiato, President of A.A.C. Forearm Forklift, Inc. “This partnership provides an exciting opportunity to keep innovating and bringing practical, ergonomic solutions to both professionals and consumers.”

“Forearm Forklift has earned the trust of professionals and consumers for making lifting safer and easier,” said Ken Buffinga, General Manager of Shepherd Hardware. “Integrating their products into our portfolio aligns with Colson Group’s long-standing commitment to ergonomic solutions. Together, we are well-positioned to continue providing solutions that improve safety and efficiency in material handling.”

This acquisition reflects Colson Group’s strategic focus on advancing ergonomic solutions across industries, reinforcing its position as the global leader in mobility and material handling products. About Colson Group

About Colson Group

Colson Group, with its globally recognized brands, is renowned for creating innovative solutions that empower various industries with specialized mobility options. With a comprehensive product portfolio and a well-established global value chain, Colson Group ensures unparalleled efficiencies and support for its customers. Employing over 1,600 professionals across 41 facilities worldwide, the company remains steadfast in its dedication to its customers’ success.

For media inquiries or more information, please contact:
Todd Ohme
Corporate Director of Marketing
[email protected]
269.769.8798

Colson’s Guide to Wheels, Casters, and Features in Robotics: AMR Designs

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Welcome to Colson Group’s latest exploration into the world of wheels and rolling elements, specifically tailored for the realm of mobile robotics. In this installment, we delve into the various designs and applications within autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), showcasing how Colson’s expertise can enhance your projects.

Customer Benefits of AMR Technology

One of the primary advantages of adopting AMR technology is its flexibility in existing environments. Unlike some technological advancements that demand extensive overhauls, integrating AMRs can often be seamless, offering a quick return on investment. However, selecting the right AMR system is paramount to realizing these benefits swiftly. Factors such as payload capacity, battery life, scalability, and compatibility with current infrastructure must be carefully considered to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency. Moreover, AMRs thrive on mobility, which depends heavily on design elements that not only facilitate smooth movement but also align with operational requirements. <4>Factors Impacting Wheel and Rolling Element Selection Regardless of the type of AMR chosen, the wheels and rolling elements play a pivotal role and are subject to various factors:
  • Load per Wheel Data: Understanding the load capacities, including nominal and maximum, is crucial. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) may be necessary for new product introduction (NPI) projects.
  • Operating Speed vs. Tread Wear: Estimating lifespan based on wear tolerance is essential for longevity.
  • Obstruction Height/Impact Duty Cycle: Assessing durability under stress and considering potential obstacles are vital for seamless operation.
  • Operating Environment: Surface type, temperature range, and resistance requirements (such as chemical, UV, or electrostatic discharge) must all be accounted for.

At Colson, we prioritize each customer’s unique application requirements before recommending any design for an AMR. This can include the following elements:

Drive/Traction Wheels

Drive wheel applications vary significantly, from softer durometer designs for enhanced traction on inclined surfaces to harder, wear-resistant solutions for demanding environments. Regardless of the specific requirements, Colson ensures that the drive wheel tread meets industry standards while the core wheel material interfaces seamlessly with the AMR drive system.

Casters

Colson boasts the deepest and most extensive standard caster offering globally. However, what sets us apart is our ability to select the correct caster for each AMR application. Whether it’s minimizing load height or dispersing ground pressure, our casters are engineered to elevate your AMR’s performance. From shock-absorbing to load-balancing designs, we deliver quality casters tailored to your needs.

Idler Wheels/Rolling Elements

We understand that AMR designs often necessitate advanced materials tailored to specific configurations. Whether your AMR requires idler wheels with a constant contact duty cycle or special cushioning to absorb impacts, our dedicated engineering team is poised to design your custom-tailored solution.

Choose Colson for Your AMR Needs

Selecting the optimal AMR design is essential for maximizing returns on your investment. When it comes to choosing component suppliers, Colson stands out as the preferred choice. Our expertise ensures that your system operates seamlessly, enhancing productivity and efficiency. Reach out to Colson today with your AMR or mobile robotics application for a comprehensive engineering review. Let’s build the future together.

Shepherd Hardware Enters Definitive Agreement to Acquire Parker & Bailey, Expanding Product Portfolio and Market Reach

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Shepherd Hardware Enters Definitive Agreement to Acquire Parker & Bailey, Expanding Product Portfolio and Market Reach

Three Oaks, MI, March 15, 2024 – Shepherd Hardware, a leading provider of hardware solutions for residential and commercial applications, proudly announces the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire Parker & Bailey, a distinguished manufacturer of specialty household cleaners, premium woodcare products, and other furniture care accessories.

“At Shepherd Hardware, we are committed to providing our customers with high quality products and services,” stated Ken Buffinga, GM of Shepherd Hardware. “The acquisition of Parker & Bailey is an opportunity to complement, expand and enhance our offerings and deliver greater value to existing and new customers. We are pleased to welcome Parker & Bailey into the Shepherd Hardware family.”

“We are excited to join forces with Shepherd Hardware,” said Andrew Schultz, co-owner of Parker & Bailey. “This partnership represents a natural progression for our company, allowing us to leverage Shepherd Hardware’s resources and distribution network to reach new heights. Together, we will continue to uphold our tradition of delivering superior home care solutions.”

“At Parker & Bailey, we take pride in our ability to operate as a lean and agile company while delivering the level of service expected from a larger enterprise,” added Bill Schultz, co-owner of Parker & Bailey. “Our commitment to excellence, coupled with Shepherd Hardware’s support, positions us for continued success in the years to come.”

As a subsidiary of Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel solutions, Shepherd Hardware is well-positioned to leverage its global footprint and extensive distribution network for continued growth of Parker & Bailey products and brands. The acquisition aligns with Shepherd Hardware’s strategic vision of expanding its market reach and delivering exceptional products and services to customers worldwide.

Parker & Bailey

Parker & Bailey has a storied history dating back to 1879, from its humble beginning as a small business in Maine to its current status as a respected industry leader. Owned and operated by brothers Bill and Andrew Schultz since 2008, Parker & Bailey’s dedication to innovative and superior surface care products aligns seamlessly with Shepherd Hardware’s mission.

About Colson Group

Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel products, creates and drives solutions that move lives forward. World renowned brands provide specialized mobility for every industry and market. A leading product portfolio and proprietary global value chain delivery unparalleled efficiencies and support. With over 1,600 employees across 25 global facilities, Colson Group is committed to its customers’ success.

For more information about Shepherd Hardware, visit shepherdhardware.com. To learn more about Parker & Bailey, please visit parkerbailey.com.

Shepherd Hardware represented by Husch Blackwell LLP

Parker & Bailey represented by Aramar Capital Group and Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP

Press Contact:
Todd Ohme
Corporate Director of Marketing
[email protected]
269.769.8798

Leading Global Enterprise Data Storage Provider

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Leading Global Enterprise Data Storage Provider

Background Customer was facing several critical supply chain challenges for casters used on data storage racks:
  • Extended Lead Time: Current suppliers struggled to maintain production lead times to meet on-going customer demand requirements
  • Multiple caster SKUs were being used on various rack types
  • Customer has stringent internal testing requirements that are above current industry standards
  • Customer has various load capacity and load height requirements along with a mounting configuration that is non-standard
Objectives
  • Reduce Lead Times: Minimize the time between placing an order and receiving components.
  • Efficient SKU Management: Identify any of the existing caster SKU’s that could be used across the customer’s product lines.
  • Maintain Quality: Ensure compliance with testing requirements without compromising on product quality.
Solution Colson Group engaged with customer engineering teams to review, analyze, and design casters to meet the customer’s criteria and objectives.
  • Modified existing standard caster offering to reduce production lead times, meet customer testing requirements, load capacity, height constraints and mounting configuration
  • Identified one caster SKU that could be paired with other caster SKU’s used across the customers product line, resulting in reductions of both the number of SKU’s and inventory requirements
Results
  • Lead Time Reduction: By modifying existing products with minimal tooling changes rather than a completely new design will allow for lead time reduction of up to 20%
  • SKU Efficiency: Rationalizing SKUs will lead to a 25% reduction in inventory needs
  • Quality Assurance: Casters passed all of the customer internal testing requirements, Colson Group on-going QC processes put in place to maintain quality standards.
Colson Group was able to engage and work with the customer to identify, evaluate, and design a solution that met or exceeded customer requirements.

 

Colson Group Announces Sale of Colson Brazil Business to Schioppa Casters and Wheels

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Colson Group Announces Sale of Colson Brazil Business to Schioppa Casters and Wheels

OAKBROOK TERRACE, IL., May 3, 2023— Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel product solutions, announces their divestiture of Colson Do Brazil to Schioppa Casters and Wheels, the largest caster and wheel manufacturer in Latin America.

“This sale will streamline our global operations and allow us to focus on our core businesses,” said Richard Kobor, CEO of Colson Group. “We would like to thank the entire Colson Brazil team for their efforts in building a strong and prosperous business and wish them all the best for their future.”

In November, 2021 Colson announced an all-employee Equity Ownership Program designed to share our success of increasing the value of the Colson Group. Since that announcement, the value of the Colson Group has increased, due in part to the success and hard work by the Colson Brazil team. Therefore, with this divesture each employee in Brazil, with at least one year of service, will receive a payout from this program, which on average will be slightly less than two months of total compensation.

“Our commitment to share our success with the employees at Colson Brazil reinforces our belief that our employees make our company what it is, and we want all of them to share in our success”, Mr. Kobor concluded.

“We are excited to welcome the Colson Brazil business to the Schioppa Casters and Wheels family,” said Mario Schioppa, CEO of Schioppa Casters and Wheels.

About Colson Group

Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel products, creates and drives solutions that move lives forward. World renowned brands provide specialized mobility for every industry and market. A leading product portfolio and proprietary global value chain delivery unparalleled efficiencies and support. With over 1,600 employees across 25 global facilities, Colson Group is committed to its customers’ success.

About Schioppa Casters and Wheels

Schioppa is globally positioned to meet the world’s caster and wheel requirements. Schioppa has a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility where dedicated engineering and manufacturing teams create some of the world’s finest casters.

Colson Group Acquires Finnish Caster Manufacturer Manner

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OAKBROOK TERRACE, IL., February 8th, 2023— Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel product solutions, announces their acquisition of Manner, a Hanko-based caster manufacturer.

“We are excited to be joining Colson Group, the largest manufacturer and distributor of caster and wheel products in the world,” said Tapio Manner, Chairman of the Board. “Since my family started Manner over 130 years ago, we have grown to become the leading caster manufacturer in the Nordic countries, with a reputation for quality and reliable service to our long-standing customers. I am confident that together with Colson Group, a company that shares our values and commitment to excellence, Manner will continue its long tradition of outstanding production in Hanko for many years to come.”

Manner is a Finnish company that specializes in the design, manufacturing and marketing of casters and caster solutions. Manner is a market leader in the design and manufacturing of more than 2,000 different casters for a variety of applications. Manner’s range includes equipment casters, medical casters, and casters for applications in logistics and in industry.

“We are pleased to have found a trusted partner in Colson Group, with its own long history of business excellence,” said Jukka Immonen, Managing Director of Manner. “I look forward to continuing Manner’s legacy of strong performance and unparalleled commitment to its customers, suppliers and employees.”

“Under the leadership and care of the Manner family, Manner has earned a reputation and track record of quality and reliability, as a leader in the design and manufacture of medical casters,” said Richard Kobor, CEO of Colson Group. “We are proud to welcome Manner to the Colson Group and to support the company’s longstanding leading position in the Nordic region. Across the world, Colson Group’s portfolio brands and products are known for their quality, safety, and innovation, and Manner will continue to excel under our new partnership.” About Manner Manner is a traditional family-owned company founded in 1890. Manner has over 80 years’ experience in the design and manufacture of a variety of caster products. The first Manner casters were manufactured in the 1930s, and since 1974, the company has focused exclusively on caster products. Today Manner’s products are used worldwide in demanding environments where quality, reliability and design are required. About Colson Group Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel products, creates and drives solutions that move lives forward. World renowned brands provide specialized mobility for every industry and market. A leading product portfolio and proprietary global value chain delivery unparalleled efficiencies and support. With over 1,600 employees across 25 global facilities, Colson Group is committed to its customers’ success.

Colson Group Launches New Regent High Volume Program

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OAKBROOK TERRACE, IL., December 9th, 2022— Colson Group, the leader in caster and wheel products, announces the launch of their Shepherd brand Regent High Volume program. Customers are now able to have Regent High Volume orders shipped within 2 weeks following the purchase.

Customers can order any combination of wheels and casters up to 10,000 at a time through the new 2-week High Volume program. Multiple fastenings and wheel types exist for the Regent series, providing customers with great flexibility of both style and usage. This new program gives customers a competitive edge in a world where fast shipping is essential to business.

“Colson Group has made a significant investment in inventory as well as modern robotic assembly equipment to leverage our ability to fill large orders in 10 days with high quality products proudly made in the USA” said Brian Crain, Colson Group Product Manager.

Shepherd Regent casters are USA-made with steel rigs for increased strength and durability. These casters have RoHS compliant zinc plating for corrosion resistance and are great for many applications, including in industries like medical, food service, office, janitorial and more.

With all the Regent caster variations and applications, you’ll be sure to find the perfect caster for your business. Ensure that you receive the best quality, value, and delivery for your mobility needs with the Shepherd Regent High Volume program.

Speed up your high-volume orders with the industry leading Regent selection. Learn more about the new Regent High Volume program by getting in contact with Colson Group today.

About Colson Group: Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel products, creates and drives solutions that move lives forward. World renowned brands, such as Shepherd, provide specialized mobility for every industry and market. A leading product portfolio and global value chain deliver unparalleled efficiencies and support. With over 1,600 employees across 25 global facilities, Colson Group is committed to its customers’ success, ensuring proper products are selected or designed from the start, and always keeping the end-users’ safety, efficiency, and happiness in mind.

Colson Group Completes New State of The Art Manufacturing Facility in Jonesboro Arkansas

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JONESBORO, Ark. (December 6, 2022) – Colson Group, the world’s leading manufacturer of standard and custom application caster and wheel products, recently completed the construction of a new manufacturing facility in Jonesboro Arkansas. Through investments in the new facility, Colson has expanded its production and improved the working environment for its employees.

“We are grateful for the opportunity to reinvest and expand our operations; at the same time continuing our association with the great people and community of Jonesboro.  This expansion opportunity increases our USA manufacturing capabilities and enables us to better support our customers’ needs.” said Joe Bigelow, Vice President of Operations, Colson Group USA.

The new 146,640 square foot facility sits on a 25-acre site located in the Craighead Technology Park. Plating, welding, and stamping investments have exponentially increased production efficiency and output. It has also provided Colson Group with new delivery capabilities due to shorter delivery times for products manufactured and shipped directly from the U.S. rather than internationally.

“The decision to reinvest in Jonesboro and build a new state-of-the-art facility shows Colson’s continued commitment to our city,” said Mark Young, president of Jonesboro Unlimited.  “It demonstrates that we have the infrastructure and workforce that allows companies to have success for decades.”

 Brasfield & Gorrie, one of the nation’s largest privately held construction firms, provided design-build services for the project.

“Colson Group has made a significant investment with the construction of this new facility,” said Brasfield & Gorrie Vice President and Division Manager David Gordon. “By opting for the design-build process, Colson Group maximized the project’s value. This process allows us to work hand-in-hand with the designer, which helps keep the project on budget and on time.”

This new plant gives employees a more work suitable and up to date environment and has increased production capabilities. Popular casters can now be produced even faster, and the facility is now capable of assembling a wider range of low volume and special caster products.

About Colson Group

Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel products, creates and drives solutions that move lives forward. World renowned brands, such as Colson Caster, provide specialized mobility for every industry and market. A leading product portfolio and global value chain deliver unparalleled efficiencies and support. With over 1,600 employees across 25 global facilities, Colson Group is committed to its customers’ success, ensuring proper products are selected or designed from the start, and always keeping the end-users’ safety, efficiency, and happiness in mind.

For more information, please visit https://colsongroupusa.com

About Brasfield & Gorrie

Founded in 1964, Brasfield & Gorrie is one of the nation’s largest privately held construction firms, providing general contracting, design-build, and construction management services for a wide variety of markets. We are skilled in construction best practices, including virtual design and construction, integrated project delivery, and Lean construction, but we are best known for our preconstruction and self-perform expertise and exceptional client service. Brasfield & Gorrie has 13 offices and more than 3,500 employees. Our 2021 revenues were $4.2 billion. Engineering News-Record ranks Brasfield & Gorrie 24th among the nation’s “Top 400 Contractors” for 2022.

Potential Hires

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Colson Group Makes All Employees an Owner with New Employee Ownership Program

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OAKBROOK TERRACE, IL., April 5th, 2022—Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel products, has unveiled a new equity participation program which grants employees shares in the company and encourages employees to “act like owners.” Chief Executive Officer Rich Kobor announced that the organization will provide this opportunity to all Colson employees worldwide at an employee appreciation event held at the construction site of the new Colson Group facility in Jonesboro, AR.

“We are working to create a culture of ownership and transparency,” said Kobor. “Our employees make our company what it is, and we want all of them to better share in our success. Our goal is to inspire our employees to act like owners, so that they have a stake in our company’s growth and a voice in our direction.”

The program, which is being structured and implemented in partnership with non-profit Ownership Works, aligns with Colson Group’s interest in creating and developing a strong culture of pride and engagement among its employees. The program aims to encourage employees to take greater responsibility for their work at the company by aligning the interests of both the company and the individual.

“Importantly, we believe this program could make a meaningful difference in the lives of our employees and their families, while driving increased value for Colson,” said David Wells, Chief Human Resources Officer.

This approach is based on the conviction that employees are significantly more likely to personally identify with their company if they own a part of it. Employee co-owners are more motivated and committed, willing to assume responsibility, and contribute to their company’s long-term success.

Colson Group is a portfolio company of Blue Wolf Capital Partners LLC, New York-based private equity firm that builds stronger businesses by combining financial and operational discipline with Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.

About Colson Group:
Colson Group, the global leader in caster and wheel products, creates and drives solutions that move lives forward. World renowned brands provide specialized mobility for every industry and market. A leading product portfolio and proprietary global value chain delivery unparalleled efficiencies and support. With over 1,600 employees across 25 global facilities, Colson Group is committed to its customers’ success, ensuring proper products are selected or designed from the start, and always keeping the end-users’ safety, efficiency, and happiness in mind.

Press Contact: Eric Gorte
Phone: 989-859-1864
Email: [email protected]