Burscheid, Germany – 1 December 2010. Johnson Controls announced that it has completed the acquisition of the Michel Thierry Group, a supplier of fabrics and lamination to the automotive industry based in Laroque d’Olmes, France. The transaction was approved by the European Commission in Brussels on 22 November 2010. With the acquisition, Johnson Controls, a global leader in automotive seating systems, interior components and electronics, further enhances its product and service portfolio in seating components.
“The acquisition of Michel Thierry complements Johnson Controls’ capabilities and positions the company to become a global leader in textiles and integrated trim. The vertical integration of Michel Thierry into our trim portfolio as a dedicated fabrics business unit aligns with OEM sourcing strategies, and creates a unique value proposition and differentiates us in the industry,” said Dr. Beda Bolzenius, Vice President, Johnson Controls and President, Automotive Experience. “In addition, we will establish an integrated footprint in China to address the increasing demand for high-quality fabrics and cut and sew capabilities there. In the United States we anticipate significant business opportunities that leverage our strong footprint.”
The company also anticipates enhanced innovation opportunities and the potential for further quality optimization by covering the entire process chain with early customer involvement. The acquisition also provides development opportunities for employees of both companies.
Michel Thierry has strong research and development and manufacturing capabilities in Europe, and operations worldwide. The acquisition includes 23 locations in 15 countries and approximately 1,700 employees (2,100 including joint ventures) globally. The company’s product line includes automotive textiles and leather production for seating and interiors. Capabilities include design, development, production, weaving, knitting, embroidery, lamination, embossing, screen printing, welding and laser punching.
Photos are available online at www.johnsoncontrols.co.uk/press.
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One of Michel Thierry´s core competencies: High quality fabrics with embroidery for automotive seats. |
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you would like more information:
Johnson Controls GmbH
Automotive Experience
Industriestraße 20–30
51399 Burscheid
Germany
Ulrich Andree
Tel.: +49 2174 65-4343
Fax: +49 2174 65-3219
E-Mail: ulrich.andree@jci.com
About Johnson Controls:
Johnson Controls is a global diversified technology and industrial leader serving customers in over 150 countries. Our 130,000 employees create quality products, services and solutions to optimize energy and operational efficiencies of buildings; lead-acid automotive batteries and advanced batteries for hybrid and electric vehicles; and interior systems for automobiles. Our commitment to sustainability dates back to our roots in 1885, with the invention of the first electric room thermostat. Through our growth strategies and by increasing market share we are committed to delivering value to shareholders and making our customers successful.
About Johnson Controls Automotive Experience:
Johnson Controls Automotive Experience is a global leader in automotive seating, overhead systems, door and instrument panels, and interior electronics. We support all major automakers in the differentiation of their vehicles through our products, technologies and advanced manufacturing capabilities. With more than 200 plants worldwide, we are where our customers need us to be. Consumers have enjoyed the comfort and style of our products, from single components to complete interiors, in over 200 million vehicles.
