The transaction builds on an established distribution relationship between the German rope manufacturer and its North American partner.
Germany-based PFEIFER DRAKO has acquired the elevator wire-rope business of US-based AFD Industries, with the transaction reported as taking place on 14 August. The acquisition brings a business that previously distributed DRAKO elevator ropes in North America under the manufacturer’s ownership.
AFD Industries had served as DRAKO’s exclusive North American distributor, providing elevator wire ropes alongside technical assistance with product selection and handling. Its distribution model included stocking and shipping locations across the country to support deliveries to customers. AFD Industries
The acquisition represents a new stage in that existing commercial relationship. Rather than entering the region through an unfamiliar business, PFEIFER DRAKO is taking ownership of an operation already associated with its products and customer requirements.
PFEIFER’s elevator portfolio covers traction ropes, ropes for roped hydraulic elevators, governor ropes and compensation ropes, together with accessories for installation and maintenance. The company also supplies products for machine-room-less elevator applications and provides tools for rope selection and service-life calculations. PFEIFER
From a business perspective, bringing manufacturing and the associated distribution operation under common ownership could allow closer coordination of product supply and technical support. However, specific changes to customer ordering, logistics or service arrangements cannot be established from the information available.
The reported transaction concerns AFD’s elevator wire-rope business. AFD also lists other elevator components in its portfolio, including guide rails, compensation chains, pumps, brackets and counterweights. The acquisition should therefore be described at the business-unit level, without implying a purchase of AFD Industries as a whole. AFD Industries
Financial terms and a detailed integration timetable were not available in the material reviewed.
Editorial note: The acquisition date and scope follow the supplied news brief. The company sources linked above verify the distribution relationship and product background, but do not independently confirm the transaction.