By SEMA News Editors
RANDYS Worldwide Announces the Acquisition of Van Compass
RANDYS Worldwide--the Everett, Washington-based national supplier of automotive aftermarket parts design, manufacturing, and distribution--has announced its strategic acquisition of Van Compass, a manufacturer of high-end suspension components tailored to the performance van camping and overlanding market.
Van Compass designs suspension components that enhance the on- and off-road capabilities of Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit and Ram ProMaster vehicles. The acquisition aligns strategically with RANDYS' focus on offering highly engineered under-car products and premium brands.
"This is an exciting step for the RANDYS family of brands to partner with such expertise in the adventure van market," says Kevin Kaestner, president and CEO of RANDYS Worldwide.
"Our company grew through innovation as the van life craze emerged. With our passion for the outdoors and our dedication to specialized suspension, we are now able to take this to the next level," says Rob Peterson, lead engineer at Van Compass. "This new relationship with RANDYS affords us the opportunity to grow our company, reward our employees, and bring Van Compass to new markets."
For more information, visit randysworldwide.com.
BendPak Supercharges Its Sales, Marketing and Product Development Teams
Agoura Hills, California-based BendPak has announced enhancements to its leadership team. Sean Price has moved to a newly created position as director of quality control, product development, and management for the Special Products Division. David Reunert joins BendPak to take over for Price as director of sales operations. Tyler Rex rejoined the company in a new position as senior director of marketing.
"Over the last 60 years, BendPak has built a reputation for listening to our customers and developing innovative products they can count on to keep them safe, comfortable, and efficient at work and at play," said Jeff Kritzer, BendPak president and CEO. "Strengthening our leadership team in key areas helps us continue to meet our diverse customer needs around the globe."
For more information, visit bendpak.com.
Martin & Company Founder Zan Martin Retires, Closing Agency
Zan Martin, the president and founder of Martin & Company Advertising, is retiring after a five-decade career in the automotive aftermarket and closing the agency.
Martin is a former SEMA board member and also served as the chair of the SEMA Businesswomen's Network from 2001 to 2003.
Martin founded the agency with late husband Randal Martin, who served as its creative director and CFO, and worked with a number of iconic industry brands during its 32 years of operation, including MAHLE Motorsport, Bridgestone, Hot Shot's Secret, Aeromotive and more.
The company will cease operations on March 6.
For more information on Martin's career, visit martincoadvertising.com.
RIGID Industries Names Andy Kroll President
RIGID Industries, the off-road lighting company based in Gilbert, Arizona, has named Andy Kroll as its new president.
In his new position, Kroll will work closely with RIGID's executive team to set long-term objectives, pursue innovation in lighting technologies and foster strong partnerships with dealers, distributors and OEMs, the company said in a statement announcing the appointment.
Prior to joining RIGID, Kroll worked at Polaris for 12 years, leading sales and marketing efforts for Polaris Snowmobiles and Off-Road Accessories, as well as running Polaris' aftermarket businesses. He also brings eight years of branding and business strategy experience from his time as a senior brand manager at General Mills.
For more information, visit rigidindustries.com.