Continental has announced the acquisition of the assets and business of CRP Industries’ Continental-related line of belts and belt kits.
With this acquisition, all of Continental-branded aftermarket belt products are now part of its North American business. Specific product lines acquired are imported and domestic Continental-branded multi-v belts, accessory drive kits, v-belts, timing belts, Pro Series kits, Pro Series Plus kits and Black Series kits.
CRP Industries will carry on in the aftermarket with its other non-Continental brands, including Rein Automotive parts, Pentosin technical fluids, Ajusa gaskets, and AAE Steering products.
“We are excited to bring all Continental products sold in North America under our own North American aftermarket business. In addition to continue providing our strong all-makes program, this integration will help us to be one of the leading providers in the import market,” said Rolf Sudmann, who currently heads the global automotive aftermarket belt business within Continental. “This will bring clarity to branding for both Continental’s and CRP’s customers. Combining the strengths of each business, we will ensure each of our customers will be provided with a one-stop shopping experience.”
“Continental has been a valued partner for more than 65 years, and mutual respect and collaboration has been the foundation of our relationship during that time,” said Dan Schildge, CEO, CRP Industries. “We are proud to have built the Continental brand in the market. This transaction brings alignment to the Continental product lines while allowing CRP to focus on further defining our brand and product offering around solving the advancing technology challenges faced by today’s repair technicians. We believe it is in the best interest of our customers, and we will do everything in our power to ensure that the transition will run smoothly.”
Both Continental and CRP intend to support the customer mindset. Therefore, the companies wish to gradually complete the collaborative transition so that their customers are able to get accustomed to the changes in the products and services.
