Johnson Controls Receives Approval From Anti-Trust Authorities to Acquire Keiper and Recaro Automotive

Johnson Controls JCI completed the previously announced acquisition of Keiper and Recaro Automotive. The European Commission in Brussels, Belgium approved the acquisition on June 17, 2011. Keiper is a leader in recliner system technology and is renowned for its engineering and manufacturing expertise in metals and mechanisms for automobile seats. The company also produces complete seats for commercial trucks. Recaro Automotive offers complete seats for automakers and as aftermarket equipment. As part of the transaction, Johnson Controls also acquires the licensing rights for the exclusive global use of the Recaro trademark for the automotive industry. The acquisition includes 4,750 employees at 13 locations across seven countries. "The acquisition of Keiper and Recaro Automotive provides Johnson Controls a comprehensive product range in seating components," said Beda Bolzenius, vice president, Johnson Controls and president, Automotive Experience. "This further complements the acquisition of C. Rob. Hammerstein earlier this year and our existing metals business."