Euro Auctions expands US network with California auctioneer

From left: Jonnie Keys, Yoder & Frey and Euro Auctions; Claudia Knopp, co-founder of The Auction Company; and Steve Gorin, co-founder of The Auction Company.

Euro Auctions says the move gives it a stronger presence on the US West Coast and extends its network across the country.

The Auction Company operates auction sites in Colton and Madera, California, as well as an office in Murrieta. They will sit alongside Euro Auctions’ existing US operations under the Yoder & Frey brand.

The Auction Company was founded in 2003 by Claudia Knopp and Steve Gorin and serves contractors, rental companies, transport operators, municipalities and government agencies across California and the western US.

It specialises in construction and heavy equipment, rental fleets, trucks, trailers, vehicles and government surplus assets.

Euro Auctions said Knopp and Gorin would continue to lead the business with the existing team, while gaining access to Euro Auctions’ international marketing capabilities and global buyer base.

Jonnie Keys, Euro Auctions, said, “The Auction Company is an excellent fit for our network. We look for strong, owner-operated businesses that share our values and commitment to customers, and Claudia, Steve and their team have built exactly that.

“The partnership strengthens our West Coast presence while giving The Auction Company’s customers access to a truly international buyer network.”

Steve Gorin, co-founder of The Auction Company, said customers would continue to deal with the same people and at the same locations.

“The difference is that their equipment can now be marketed to buyers around the world,” he said.

Following the addition of The Auction Company’s California sites, Euro Auctions’ network now comprises six auction sites in the US, seven in Canada, five in Europe, one in the UAE and one in Australia.