Wabtec to buy Dellner Couplers from EQT for $960 million

Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies

18/03/2025 11:51

March 18 (Reuters) - Wabtec WAB.N said on Tuesday it has agreed to buy train coupler maker Dellner Couplers from private equity firm EQT EQTAB.ST for $960 million in cash, as the heavy industrial parts maker looks to strengthen its passenger rail business.

The deal, to be financed through cash on hand and short-term debt, is expected to boost Wabtec's high-margin recurring revenue and enhance its operational performance.

"Dellner Couplers provides significant synergies by complementing our core transit systems portfolio, servicing a joint customer base and leveraging our strong service capabilities," Wabtec CEO Rafael Santana said.

Sweden-based Dellner Couplers, which EQT acquired in 2019, makes train connection systems, with production, assembly and aftermarket services facilities in 13 countries.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania-based Wabtec — a provider of equipment, systems and aftermarket services for freight and transit rail industries — expects the deal to boost its adjusted profit in the first year of ownership.

 (Reporting by Kannaki Deka in Bengaluru; Editing by Shilpi Majumdar)

 ((Kannaki.Deka@thomsonreuters.com))