Vermeer to Acquire Stake in Wildcat Mfg.

Vermeer Manufacturing Co., a maker of tree care, wood waste recycling and composting equipment, has announced intentions to acquire a 50 percent stake in Wildcat Mfg. Co. Incorporated. Based in Freeman, S.D., Wildcat is a leading manufacturer of compost turners, trommel screens and green waste sorting equipment.

“Vermeer has been engaged in the composting market for a decade with our tub and horizontal grinder line,” says Mike Byram, senior director of environmental solutions for Vermeer. “We believe current industry trends and regulations will continue to divert organic matter from landfills and fuel additional growth in this market.”

Earlier this year, Vermeer entered the compost turner market with the introduction of the CT670 compost turner that features a patented elevating face technology.

Wildcat is known for constructing reliable and easy-to-service equipment, Byram adds. They are also considered a leader in the design, development and manufacture of drum-style compost turners and trommel screen technology. The purchase of an interest in Wildcat complements the growing line of tub and horizontal grinders and compost turning equipment manufactured by Vermeer.

Vermeer will assume management responsibility for Wildcat and anticipates the acquisition will be completed this summer.

“We have made great strides over the past decade to become better stewards of the environment, and the addition of the compost turner equipment is an extension of this effort,” says Byram.

More information on Vermeer and Wildcat products and services can be found on the company Web sites at vermeer.com or wildcatmfg.com, or by e-mailing Vermeer at salesinfo@vermeermfg.com.