A series of truck dealership transactions contributed to a successful month for mergers and acquisitions.
Bruckner’s Enhances Dealer Network in the Northwest
Bruckner’s Truck & Equipment has expanded into Idaho and Montana, as well as deeper into Washington, by acquiring Transport Equipment Inc. (TEI) for an undisclosed sum, as reported on Feb. 24.
This acquisition includes TEI’s locations in Lewiston, ID; Missoula, MT; and Spokane, WA, enhancing Bruckner’s existing network. Founded in 1983 by Steve and Betty Bidlake, TEI has evolved from a Timpte Trailer dealership into a comprehensive truck sales and service provider.
Thanks to this acquisition, TEI customers will now have access to a broader selection of Mack and Volvo trucks, trailers, parts, and improved service options.
Founded in 1932 and located in Amarillo, Texas, Bruckner’s now boasts 41 locations across 10 states in the Southwest and Pacific Northwest.
Nuss Truck & Equipment Expands to Southeastern Missouri
Nuss Truck & Equipment has acquired Trucks Inc., a Volvo Truck dealership located in Sikeston, Missouri, per a release from Nuss dated Feb. 10.
This acquisition aims to enhance service availability for customers in southeast Missouri, southern Illinois, and western Kentucky, and was made for an undisclosed amount.
Having partnered with Volvo Trucks North America for over 30 years, Trucks Inc. has received multiple Volvo Dealer Performance Awards.
The dealership will provide new and used truck sales, comprehensive maintenance, expanded parts inventory, as well as financing and leasing options. With the addition of Trucks Inc., Nuss now operates 10 locations across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Missouri.
Thompson Truck & Trailer Integrates into Ascendance Truck Centers
Thompson Truck & Trailer has been acquired by Ascendance Truck Centers for an undisclosed price after 25 years as a family-operated dealership, as reported in a release dated Feb. 13.
With its headquarters in Boca Raton, Florida, Ascendance operates in 10 states. The acquisition includes 145 employees across five International dealerships in Iowa and Illinois, as well as the Thompson Body Shop and Thompson Trailer Shop in Cedar Rapids.
Thompson Tire & Retread’s three locations are not included in the deal and will continue to operate independently.
Premier Equipment Acquires W.J. Heaslip Ltd.
Premier Equipment, a Canadian dealer for John Deere with multiple stores, announced its acquisition of W.J. Heaslip based in Hagersville, Ontario, on Feb. 14.
This acquisition will broaden Premier’s service range in Brant and Haldimand counties in Ontario, finalized at an undisclosed amount.
Since the 1940s, W.J. Heaslip has been serving farming and rural communities, becoming a John Deere dealer in 1986.
The Hagersville location will become Premier’s 10th dealership, increasing its employee count to over 375. Operations are projected to transition on April 14, pending necessary approvals. Rob Heaslip, president of W.J. Heaslip, will join Premier to oversee the transition.
One Community Bank Set to Merge with Intercity State Bank
One Community Bank (OCB) will merge with Intercity State Bank, as announced on Jan. 31.
The banks share a long-standing relationship, with OCB President and CEO Steve Peotter serving on the board of Intercity for a decade, and they have collaborated on major projects in Wausau, Wisconsin.
Both banks are part of the same ownership group, enhancing their relationship. Following the merger, Intercity’s three locations in Schofield, Weston, and Wausau will transition into OCB branches, with all employees retaining their positions.
This merger coincides with the planned retirement of Intercity President and CEO Randy Balk after over 40 years with the bank. Chris Pfender, Intercity’s executive vice president, will become the regional president. The merger is anticipated to finalize this year, pending regulatory approval.
The third annual Equipment Finance Connect event will take place at the JW Marriott Nashville on May 14-15, 2025, serving both equipment dealers and finance providers. For more information and registration, click here.
