Lawrence David bought by Polish group Wielton

UK trailer manufacturer Lawrence David has become part of the Wielton Group.

Wielton is the third largest manufacturer of trailers in Europe with a primary listing on the Polish stock exchange. They have taken a 75% stake in Lawrence David after a deal was signed on 17 September.

The group has a network of trailer businesses including Fruehauf in France and Langendorf in Germany alongside its core Polish manufacturing business.

Lawrence Marshall senior is retiring as chairman of Lawrence David after 45 years. Laurence Marshall junior remains as CEO and has retained 25% of the business.

Laurence Marshall junior said: “This agreement aligns our interests with a strong and stable partner for chassis supply whilst allowing Lawrence David to continue business with its current supply group.

"We are particularly excited about the opportunities that will result from working with a dynamic team with world class research and development facilities.”

Lawrence David has traditionally worked closely with SDC, which has supplied it with trailer chassis, but a spokesman for the former said the change in ownership wouldn't affect this in the short-term.

The trailer manufacturers are exhibiting on a joint stand at this week's IAA CV show in Hannover.