A combination of Haulotte Group SA of L'Horme, France and Bil-Jax Inc of Archbold may result in each business reaching beyond its existing geographic production pattern.

A US subsidiary of Haulotte acquired Bil-Jax, effective July 24. Terms were not disclosed.

The alliance may lead to a North American manufacturing capability for Haulotte forklifts and other equipment and non-US production capability for Bil-Jax products.

In a statement, Alexandre Saubot, Haulotte chief operating officer, says the acquisition will allow Haulotte to "establish a manufacturing presence in North America."

While no details are official yet, the production decision may emerge from discussions between the businesses over the next 30 to 60 days and involve implementation before year's end, says Brent Hagedorn, Bil-Jax director of marketing and national accounts.

Haulotte has "been looking to get a US base for manufacturing," Hagedorn tells Forkliftaction.com News. "Now, we have the footprint" to achieve that Haulotte goal.

Haulotte makes material handling equipment including articulated telehandlers, truck-mounted booms, telescopic work handlers and scissor lifts.

Haulotte reported profit of EUR71.0 million (USD104.6 million) on 2007 sales of EUR648.1 million (USD954.6 million). In the US, Haulotte operates service and sales sites in Frederick, Maryland; Kennesaw, Georgia; and Rialto, California, and is establishing a location in Texas.

The deal should create a market position outside of the US for Bil-Jax's aerial work platforms and scaffolds. Bil-Jax employs about 80 and had 2007 sales of approximately USD80 million. More than 90% of Bil-Jax sales take place in the North American market.