Wieland Acquires U.S. Companies to Boost North America Position

Wieland Group, a German supplier of copper and brass products, including tubes for transcritical CO2 (R744) refrigeration applications, has acquired U.S.-based Heyco Metals and National Bronze Manufacturing through the purchase of Hummock Industries, a holding company that focuses on long-term investments in North American manufacturing companies, according to a statement from Wieland.

The acquisition of Pennsylvania-based Heyco Metals – specialists in light- and medium-gauge copper, copper alloy and stainless-steel strip processing – and Michigan-based National Bronze – a manufacturer and distributor of bronze-based bearing products – will "further strengthen Wieland's market position with expanded product offerings, manufacturing capabilities and distribution networks in North America," said the company.

The transaction, which officially closed on December 30, 2022, marks the latest in a string of Wieland's buyouts in the U.S., including metal recycling specialist Totall Metal Recycling in April 2022 and distributor The Miller Company in July 2021.

"Like Wieland, Heyco Metals and National Bronze are recognized for exceptional quality and service," said Dr. Erwin Mayr, CEO of Wieland.

"Our ambitious growth plans include the continued diversification of product categories and manufacturing capabilities, allowing Wieland to support the growing and challenging needs of our customers today and, more importantly, well into the future. This acquisition also reaffirms Wieland's commitment to continued investment and growth in North America," he added.

"Our ambitious growth plans include the continued diversification of product categories and manufacturing capabilities, allowing Wieland to support the growing and challenging needs of our customers today and, more importantly, well into the future."

Wieland manufactures products for a range of industries, including HVAC&R, automotive and electronics. The acquisition of Heyco Metals and National Bronze highlights the company's plans to expand its offerings in the areas of mobility and electrification in the region, it says.

The acquisition also adds a new manufacturing site to its global network. This latest site will specialize in the production of bronze bushing, bearings and other industrial components.

Wieland has also recently updated its climate commitments to better align with global targets.

By 2030, the company has committed to reducing its scope 1 (i.e., direct from operations) and scope 2 (i.e., indirect from off-site energy consumption) emissions by 46.2%, up from its initial target of 42%.

Wieland also aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2045 "at the latest," it said.

These updated targets have been validated by the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi).

According to its 2020/21 sustainability report, Wieland reduced its scope 1 and scope 2 emissions by 10% during the reporting period.