Dana Corporation to Sell Sierra Aftermarket Operations
19 July 1999
Dana Corporation to Sell Sierra Aftermarket OperationsTOLEDO, Ohio, July 19 -- Dana Corporation today announced plans to sell its Sierra International, Inc., aftermarket marine and power equipment parts operations. With 1998 sales of approximately $40 million, Sierra manufactures and distributes Sierra Marine(R) engine and drive products, Shields Marine(R) hose products, and Prime Line(R) power equipment components. The business employs nearly 165 people at facilities in Litchfield, Ill., and Clearwater, Fla. The group came to Dana through its acquisition of Echlin Inc. last July. Larry McCurdy, president of Dana's Automotive Aftermarket Group, said, "Sierra is known for its quality people, products, and service, but marine and power equipment aftermarkets are not strategic markets for Dana. As a market leader in marine and power equipment replacement markets, Sierra represents a tremendous opportunity for the right buyer." The proposed sale is consistent with Dana's previously announced Five- Point Plan for continued growth and increased profitability, and it comes in response to interest from potential buyers. Dana unveiled its Five-Point Plan in April. The plan, a tactical link to the company's overall strategic plan, includes the following five tactics: -- Grow while focusing on returns and maintaining financial discipline; -- Seek strategic, bolt-on acquisitions at reasonable valuations; -- Divest non-strategic and non-performing operations; -- Repurchase stock as the company generates cash; and -- Complete integration efforts and realize synergy savings. Dana has retained the Detroit-based investment-banking firm of W. Y. Campbell & Company to assist in the transaction. Dana Corporation is one of the world's largest independent suppliers to vehicle manufacturers and their related aftermarkets. Founded in 1904 and based in Toledo, Ohio, the company operates some 330 major facilities in 32 countries and employs more than 86,000 people. The company reported sales of $12.5 billion in 1998. Dana's internet address is http://www.dana.com.