PLZ Aeroscience Corporation (PLZ), North America’s largest independent specialty aerosol and liquid product manufacturer, today announced the acquisition of Champion Brands, LLC (Champion), a manufacturer of specialty lubricants for the automotive and industrial markets. Financial terms of the acquisition are not disclosed. With this acquisition, PLZ expands its full-service automotive and industrial offerings. This positions the company to better serve its customers with a comprehensive suite of aerosol and non-aerosol products.
Founded by Ralph Lowe in 1956 with decades of industry leadership, Champion produces more than 300 functional fluids and performance products. Products include; brake fluid, fuel treatments, semi-synthetic and full-synthetic engine additives and specialty motor oils. Champion operates a 450,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Clinton, MO, and serves customers across automotive, heavy duty, agricultural and performance racing markets. The speed and versatility of Champion’s lines make the company a cost effective solution for many customers.
“We are very excited to welcome Champion to PLZ,” said Aaron Erter, PLZ’s President and CEO. “Champion is a market leader within the automotive aftermarket industry, and we look forward to leveraging their capabilities across our combined enterprise to strengthen the value proposition we bring to our customers. Champion is an incredible addition to PLZ as we continue growing our specialty automotive and industrial footprint across North America.”
The company is led by Matt Lowe, the third generation of Lowe leadership at Champion. Mr. Lowe will remain with Champion following the transaction.
“I am thrilled for Champion to become part of the PLZ family,” said Matt Lowe. “We look forward to leveraging PLZ’s extensive industry experience and national footprint to help grow Champion in the years to come. Together with PLZ, we will propel the combined company forward into its next chapter as we continue to deliver exceptional innovation, quality and service to our customers.”
Headquartered outside Chicago, PLZ is owned by Pritzker Private Capital. With their support, PLZ has continued to grow organically and through acquisitions. They have acquired four in the last two years – Mansfield-King, Custom-Pak Products, Liquid Technologies and Precise Packaging.
