Hardox Wearparts Center Geha Beheer BV (Geha) is acquiring Laverman Holding BV  (Laverman) and forming Geha-Laverman. The new company will be a strong, complete supplier with a comprehensive range of wear products and services. In connection with the merger, SSAB – which currently holds a minority stake in Geha – is increasing its shareholding in the new company to 51%.

“By combining Geha’s know-how regarding Hardox wearparts and Laverman’s focus on castings, a company is being formed that will possess broad expertise and a complete customer offering,” says Chris Van Beurden, Vice President Wear Services EMEA. “I see great opportunities for SSAB to further strengthen its presence in the region through an increased stake in the new company.”

Geha-Laverman will be a leading supplier of wear products to the demolition and recycling market. The new company will focus primarily on segments such as demolition, waste management, scrap, sand and glass recycling. Bulk materials-handling, infrastructure and quarrying will also be core market sectors. The company will have 46 employees.

“With the companies’ combined 12-strong sales force and the wider product portfolio after the merger, there will be great opportunities to reach more customers and strengthen the company’s position on the market,” says Chris Van Beurden.

The investment represents a part of SSAB’s strategy to grow on the wear parts aftermarket.

Hardox Wearparts is a leading supplier of wearparts and wear service, with more than 100 facilities in 40 countries.

SSAB is a global leader in value added, high strength steel. SSAB offers products developed in close cooperation with its customers to create a stronger, lighter and more sustainable world. SSAB has employees in over 45 countries and operates production facilities in Sweden and the US.