Trailer dealers accounted for most of the acquisition news in a slow February as the dealer, aftermarket and supplier sector transaction pace remained slow after a strong close to 2025.
Thermo King started the month announcing Feb. 5 its purchase of CSTK, an independent Thermo King sales and service dealer serving the Northeast and Central regions of the country. Bringing in the dealership in house, Thermo King Americas President Adam Wittwer said the “acquisition brings us closer to our customers in important U.S. markets and strengthens our ability to deliver the high level of service they rely on every day. CSTK has built a strong reputation over decades as a service-driven organization.”
The next week W&B Service Company, parent company of 2024 Trailblazer Award winner Superior Trailer Sales, announced its purchase of Sanders Trailer Service. “Sanders Trailer Service is a strong cultural and operational fit for W&B,” said CEO Justin Keppy. “They have built a reputation for customer service, technical expertise with an employee-first culture, and those values align closely with how we do business. This acquisition allows us to expand our trailer offerings while continuing to deliver the level of service, reliability and responsiveness our customers expect.”
Later in the month the industry had its second divestiture announcement in as many months, as Genuine Parts Company reported it will split its automotive and industrial business. The move will separate GPC’s well known transportation brands NAPA and UAP/Traction Heavy Duty from its Motion Industries industrial brand. “Creating two focused, independent companies sharpens customer and market alignment, increases clarity and speed, simplifies operations and enables disciplined, business-specific investments to unlock long-term value,” said CEO Will Stengel.
Finally, Epika Fleet Services reported a partnership with Florida’s Freeway Fleet Services and One Way Diesel Truck Repair. “Freeway represents the kind of technician-first, high-integrity business we're proud to bring into the Epika Network and expands our service network to Southern Florida,” said Ian McKeen, CEO of Epika. “Alfredo and Ariatna have built something truly special rooted in deep technical expertise and a strong commitment to their customers and team in Florida. We're excited to welcome them to the Epika family.”
