ECKHART ACQUIRES INDIANA-BASED GASPER ENGINEERING
WARREN, MI – February 5, 2019 – Eckhart, Inc. announced today that it has acquired Gasper Engineering, a full service industrial automation systems integrator and specialty machine builder located in North Vernon, Indiana. Eckhart is an Industry 4.0 leader that designs, builds, and integrates turn-key systems for the largest industrial companies in the world. Eckhart’s suite of solutions includes AUTOCRAFT™ autonomous guided vehicles, collaborative robotics, 3D printing, automated conveyance & assembly systems, mechanical & electrical design services, and specialized ergonomic assembly line tools and equipment. Eckhart has been a portfolio company of LFM Capital since 2015.
Gasper Engineering, established in 1999, is a premier factory automation systems integrator that serves diverse end markets throughout North America. The company designs, builds, and integrates highly automated assembly, conveyance, labeling, and sortation systems for industries that include aerospace, automotive, life science, packaging, and power generation & distribution. Gasper Engineering is highly regarded for consistently demonstrating best-in-class customer service. Gasper Engineering’s attention to detail has helped the company achieve a loyal base of customers who trust Gasper to design and integrate highly engineered systems into their factory environments.
Located in the center of Indiana’s Golden Triangle, Gasper Engineering is a one hour drive from three major US cities: Indianapolis, Indiana; Cincinnati, Ohio; and Louisville, Kentucky. These metropolitan regions provide direct access to the largest shipping, logistics, grocery, appliance, and consumer packaged goods companies in the world.
Stephen Gasper, founder of Gasper Engineering, said, “Since our founding, Gasper Engineering has exemplified a servant mindset with customers. Exceeding customer expectations is in our DNA. We are proud of the strong reputation we’ve earned integrating highly engineered automation into the most technologically advanced industrial environments in the world.” Gasper continued, “I sold my company to Eckhart because they are committed to investing in our community. As an Industry 4.0 leader, their advanced technologies complement our core business and their turn-key suite of solutions bring real value to our customers. Eckhart’s commitment to grow in North Vernon and expand employment in Indiana is exciting.”
Eckhart President & CEO Andy Storm commented, “As global markets continue to experience volatility and change, establishing a local presence close to customers will remain a high priority for Eckhart. Gasper Engineering will help us accelerate the adoption of Industry 4.0 in a key region of the United States where long-term growth opportunities in non-cyclical industries are significant. We look forward to expanding our footprint in North Vernon and growing manufacturing employment in the state of Indiana.”
About Eckhart, Inc.
With over 60 years of experience and based in Warren, Michigan, Eckhart engineers advanced industrial solutions that enhance the quality of life. Eckhart’s portfolio of Industry 4.0 technology includes AUTOCRAFT™ autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs), collaborative & traditional robotics, assembly line design & simulation, 3D printing tool development & production, and ergonomic assembly tooling solutions for the world’s largest manufacturers. Eckhart serves an established and loyal, blue-chip customer base of leading automotive and industrial original equipment manufacturers including Honda, Toyota, Nestle, CertainTeed, General Electric, FedEx, Procter & Gamble, Kroger, and Allison Transmission. For additional information, visit www.eckhartusa.com
About Gasper Engineering
Established in 1999 and based in North Vernon, Indiana, Gasper Engineering is a premier factory automation systems integrator serving diverse end markets throughout North America. The company specializes in automated assembly, conveyance, labeling, and sortation systems for the aerospace, biotechnology, life science, medical equipment, automotive, and power generation & distribution industries. Gasper customers include Cummins, Honeywell, Schneider Electric, Aisin, GECOM, FOX, and Grote.