Zeppelin to expand Cat partnership in Europe

Zeppelin Rental, Zeppelin Baumaschinen and Caterpillar’s joint Bauma 2022 showcase. (Photo; Zeppelin)

The Zeppelin Group is to take over the sales and service operations for Caterpillar equipment in Norway and the Netherlands, adding approximately 2,000 employees and €1.1 billion in revenue.

The acquisition involves Zeppelin purchasing all shares in the holding company of Pepp Group BV, the owner of Pon Holdings, which has managed the territories for two decades.

Under the agreement, the legal entities in Norway and the Netherlands will transfer to Zeppelin Group as part of a share deal.

The move also includes rental solutions as well as drive and energy systems in the two countries.

Zeppelin described the transaction as a significant step in becoming one of the “leading sales and service organizations worldwide for Cat products.”

Matthias Benz, chairman of the Group management board of Zeppelin, said, “With these two areas, we are strengthening the long-term partnership with Caterpillar at a global level. Zeppelin is thus growing in our well-known and proven core business.

“We will be able to offer our customers a wide range of solutions, products and services through our complementary product portfolio.

“We are proud that Caterpillar has expressed its confidence in us, and that we will operate in additional countries in future. We see a great deal of potential in these new regions and are pursuing a long-term growth strategy.”

Andreas Brand, chairman of the superadvisory board, Zeppelin, and his successor Simon Blümcke, added, “Zeppelin has been active in the sales and service of Cat construction and mining equipment as well as engines since 1954. 70 years of partnership founded on trust are an excellent starting point for continuing this success story as a globally leading sales and service organization for Cat products and a foundation-owned company with an even broader international presence.”

Janus Smalbraak, CEO of Pon Holdings, stated, “We enjoyed two successful decades with Caterpillar, and are pleased to now see our equipment and power business transition to Zeppelin. With their long-term vision and established partnership with Caterpillar, Zeppelin offers an ideal platform for further growth. This transition ensures continuity for our employees, customers, and partners.”

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including the approval of the relevant antitrust authorities and successful completion of the consultation procedures with the relevant Dutch works councils.