Manitou and Yanmar form North American alliance

Manitou and Yanmar have formed an alliance to cross sell excavators and skid steer loaders in North America. One consequence of the deal is that Manitou has ended its long-standing excavator alliance in North America with Wacker Neuson.

Manitou will sell Yanmar compact excavators in North America under the Gehl and Mustang brands. In parallel, Yanmar will sell in North America under its own brand the skid steer loaders and compact track loaders designed and manufactured in the US by Manitou's compact equipment divisions, Gehl and Mustang.

Manitou said it was ending its North American distribution agreement with Germany's Wacker Neuson, under which Manitou has been selling excavators and all wheel steer loaders since 1999.

The French manufacturer said it would continue to provide service and parts support to dealers and customers for the Wacker Neuson products.

Yanmar and Manitou already have a long-standing relationship, with Manitou using Yanmar engines in Gehl and Mustang products. The two said they will look at broader distribution opportunities aimed at growing sales activities for both companies while strengthening each company's independent dealer network.

"There is a strong synergy between our organizations, from our core culture and values to the complimentary fit of our product lines", said Ted Bregar, president, Yanmar America, "We believe the market will readily embrace the quality and value that our products have to offer."

Daniel Miller, president and CEO of Manitou Americas, said; "Manitou is extremely excited about this enhanced alliance and the opportunities it presents for our dealers and customers. Yanmar has been a key supplier and this new relationship only strengthens this long term partnership."