Wisconsin Firm to Buy Willow Run’s Active Aero Group for $115M

3190

Roadrunner Transportation Systems, based south of Milwaukee, announced today it will acquire Belleville-based Active Aero Group for approximately $115 million.

Active Aero — which provides transportation logistics for customers with sensitive or time-critical freight — is capable of leading significant growth in expedited services in the U.S. while capitalizing on accelerating demand in Mexico, says Patrick McKay, Roadrunner’s president of truckload logistics.

“Additionally, we expect to be able to complement each other through utilization of our combined network and the expanded services we collectively bring to our customers,” McKay says.

The merger will provide both companies with expanded growth opportunities while enhancing career opportunities for their employees, says Dave Schembri, CEO of Active Aero. The company, based next to Willow Run Airport, was majority owned by Platinum Equities, which is controlled by Detroit Pistons owner Tom Gores.

“From our initial meeting with the Roadrunner team, we were very impressed by our similar cultures and shared values, including providing superior customer service at the best value,” Schembri says.

Active Aero generated revenue of approximately $265 million from July 1, 2013 to June 30, 2014.

The transaction is expected to close by the end of the third quarter, subject to customary closing conditions.