Yanmar Holdings Co., Ltd. and AriensCo have announced a strategic partnership that unites two multigenerational family-owned businesses to accelerate the development of next-generation technologies and deliver even greater value for dealers, customers and partners of both companies. Through the combination, Yanmar, a Japan-based manufacturer of engines, agricultural machinery and energy systems, becomes the majority partner in AriensCo, a family-owned manufacturer of outdoor lawn and garden equipment. The Ariens family will retain a significant stake in the business and lead operations and strategy for the company from its existing headquarters in Brillion, Wis.

Both companies will continue operating as usual under their respective brands, from their current headquarters, with the same teams, and with their manufacturing and distribution networks intact. Ariens, Gravely, AS-Motor and all associated brands will uphold their commitments to dealers, customers, employees and communities.

“Strong relationships have always been at the core of AriensCo’s strategy, and we are confident this new partnership with Yanmar is the right next step to position our company as an R&D leader while maintaining the same commitments to quality and longevity that have always distinguished our brands,” says Dan Ariens, Chairman & CEO, AriensCo. “As a family business with a history spanning more than 100 years, Yanmar shares our belief that family ownership is a competitive advantage. This partnership provides continuity by keeping family ownership at the heart of AriensCo. It allows both companies to look beyond short-term business performance to deliver long-term value to our dealers, customers, partners and communities around the world. We are stronger together.”

The partnership positions Yanmar and AriensCo to lead the development of next-generation industrial power equipment as automation, artificial intelligence, electrification and complex global supply chains transform the industry. Yanmar’s world-class engineering, production and diagnostic capabilities, alongside AriensCo’s established North American and European manufacturing and distribution networks, enable the partners to compete at scale.

The partnership is also expected to create new opportunities for AriensCo’s nationwide dealer network. Over time, dealers may benefit from broader product and technology capabilities, enhanced service and diagnostic resources, and access to Yanmar’s global business network. 

AriensCo was advised in this transaction by Baird as financial advisor and Reinhart Boerner Van Deuren s.c. as legal counsel. Yanmar was advised in this transaction by JP Morgan as financial advisor and Arnold & Porter s.c. as legal counsel.