Continental AG has acquired the automotive belting and related products assets and business of CRP Industries Inc, which consists almost entirely of Continental-branded products sold in North America. As a result of the deal, Conti now controls all Continental-branded aftermarket belting products through its ContiTech North America Inc. business in Fairlawn. Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

Originally called Conti Rubber Products Inc, Cranberry (N.J.-based) CRP Industries was founded in 1954 to represent Continental products - including tyres - in the US marketplace. The company adopted the CRP name in 1978.

 

The deal covers import 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, Conti said.

 

Continental said that it will work together with CRP on a gradual transition to enable both sets of customers to become accustomed to the new arrangement of products and services.

 

"We are excited to bring all Continental products sold in North America under our own North American aftermarket business," said Rolf Sudmann, Head of Continental's Global Aftermarket Belt Business.

 

He added, “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. 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 a one-stop shopping experience."

 

CRP Industries will continue to serve the aftermarket through its non-Continental brands, which include Rein Automotive parts, Pentosin technical fluids, Ajusa gaskets and AAR Steering products.

 

"Continental has been a valued partner for more than 65 years, and a mutual respect and collaboration has been the foundation of our relationship during that time. 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,” said Dan Schildge, CEO, CRP Industries.