New distribution channels for Bosch Diagnostics in North America: the Automotive Aftermarket division is acquiring the operating assets of Accu Industries Inc. in Ashland, Virginia, USA. The acquisition is expected to close before the end of April.

Accu Industries employs 45 associates and generated sales of roughly 16 million U.S. dollars (approximately 11.7 million euros) in 2007. The company sells tire changers, wheel balancers, and wheel alignment equipment. Accu Industries will become an integral part of the existing Bosch Diagnostics business in the United States. The President of Accu Industries will remain with the company in a senior management position.

The acquisition is intended to improve the distribution and service offered by the Bosch Diagnostics business unit in North America. Accu Industries is well established in the aftersales segment there, and is therefore a logical extension to the business Bosch already has in the U.S.

In the future, Accu Industries is to assume responsibility for wheel and tire service in the U.S., in the area of both sales and technical support. Even today, the company works together with more than 70 sales representatives and 200 authorized service centers in the area of workshop equipment. The assembly activities of Accu Industries will also be an addition to the global production network of Bosch Diagnostics.

With this acquisition, Automotive Aftermarket is broadening its distribution base in the workshop equipment business, and is thus preparing the ground for further growth in North America.