ABC Companies and VDL Groep announced VDL is acquiring parts of the Flemish bus manufacturer Van Hool.

The family-owned industrial company headquartered in Eindhoven in The Netherlands is acquiring parts of the bankrupt Van Hool in Belgium, including its production facility in North Macedonia.

By acquiring these Van Hool plants, VDL Groep plans to further strengthen the activities of its Buses division. The acquisition will immediately save around 1,600 jobs in the high-quality European bus industry. The amounts involved in the acquisition are not being disclosed.

Continuing the ABC Partnership

As part of the acquisition, ABC and VDL also announced a 10-year exclusive distribution agreement.

"The acquisition and continued partnership with VDL Groep represent a pivotal evolution for ABC Companies, fortifying our market offerings and reinforcing our role as industry leaders in supporting our customers and adopting advanced transportation technologies," said Roman Cornell, CEO of ABC Companies. "This collaboration not only enhances our capabilities but also aligns with our commitment to innovation, customer service and quality, ensuring we meet the evolving needs of our customers."

As ABC Companies integrates the VDL-owned Van Hool brand, it is focused on a seamless transition for all customers, maintaining business as usual while embracing the enhanced capabilities and innovations brought by VDL, said the company.

ABC added that the strategic alliance underscores its resilience and adaptability, further enhancing its ability to lead with innovation, quality, and a customer-focused approach.

VDL’s Plans for Van Hool

Around 250 former Van Hool employees will be hired to work on parts production, aftersales, procurement, development, and finance for the Van Hool plant in Koningshooikt (Belgium). An agreement was reached with the unions on the terms of conditions of employment.

VDL Groep will also acquire all the intellectual property, design rights, software, product names, equipment, and machines from Van Hool, in addition to its coach factory in North Macedonia where around 1,350 employees are stationed.

“We are delighted to announce that we have been able to acquire parts of Van Hool, said VDL Groep President/CEO Willem van der Leegte. “These will add value to our bus and coach activities and enable us to strengthen our position as a bus manufacturer. The strategic partnership with our American partner ABC Companies makes it possible for us to further develop our international activities.”

VDL Groep will not yet be integrating the activities acquired from Van Hool in its bus and coach activities.