December 4, 2006 — Switzerland-based Georg Fischer AG, reports it has purchased E.D.C. Inc., Montreal, for an undisclosed price. The pressure diecasting operation produces light-metal automotive and commercial-vehicle components, e.g. brake parts, as well as parts for the electronics, telecommunications and construction markets.
Family-owned E.D.C. employs 85 workers, and Georg Fischer indicates it will raise output in stages and expand the operation gradually, as its platform for supplying the North American automotive industry. GF is relying on the broad automotive trend toward lighter components to open market opportunities for its specialty, light-metal diecastings.
“With this strategic move, Georg Fischer has taken another step toward gaining direct access to the important North American truck and commercial vehicle market,” the group states. “By bolstering its presence in the NAFTA market, GF Automotive is establishing a third pillar outside the European and Asian markets, thus strengthening its global reach in the automotive sector.”
GF says it aims to increase its profile as a single-source global supplier for the automotive industry. As an example, it refers to a recent order to manufacture and supply steering brackets for a European manufacturer's U.S. customers. “Willingness to locate production close to customers’ sites is of increasing importance and is crucial for handling major global projects in future,” it explains.