Columbus McKinnon and Kito Crosby Join Forces to Elevate Lifting Solutions

Columbus McKinnon and Kito Crosby Partnership: A New Era in Lifting Solutions

In an exciting move for the lifting solutions sector, Columbus McKinnon Corporation has officially finalized the acquisition of Kito Crosby Limited. This major transaction, announced on February 4, 2026, will not only combine the strengths of two industry leaders but is also expected to generate significant cost synergies and boost shareholder value.

The Impact of the Acquisition

The integration of Kito Crosby into Columbus McKinnon’s operations is anticipated to create a powerhouse with enhanced capabilities, allowing the company to serve customers across various markets more effectively. With projected cost synergies estimated at $70 million, the combined enterprise looks poised for significant financial improvement, including an expected increase in Adjusted EBITDA margin.

David J. Wilson, President and CEO of Columbus McKinnon, expressed enthusiasm about the merger. He highlighted the transformational nature of this acquisition, stating, "This is a pivotal moment for Columbus McKinnon as we expand our presence in the global market while delivering superior products that elevate safety and performance standards for our customers." This sentiment underscores the shared vision of the two companies — a commitment to operational excellence and innovation in material handling.

New Leadership for a Combined Future

Following the acquisition, a new Executive Leadership Team will be put in place, with leaders from both organizations stepping into critical roles. David Wilson will continue as President and CEO, while Gregory Rustowicz takes over as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. The regional leadership will be enriched with talents like Yoshio Kito for Asia Pacific and Wim Fabricius for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

These strategic appointments are designed to drive growth, enhance margins, and realize the anticipated synergies from the merger. Wilson noted, "With a blend of our cultures and expertise, we are finely positioned to not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clientele through innovation and operational strategies."

Regulatory Approvals and Future Endeavors

The completion of this acquisition faced thorough scrutiny, including approvals from various regulatory bodies. Columbus McKinnon successfully navigated through 14 regulatory review processes, affirming its commitment to compliance and industry standards.

As the company forges ahead, its leadership team will continue focusing on integrating the operations of Kito Crosby effectively into Columbus McKinnon’s structure. This will involve streamlining processes, aligning corporate strategies, and capitalizing on shared resources to provide exceptional service in the lifting and material handling sectors.

A Legacy of Excellence

Columbus McKinnon and Kito Crosby have long been recognized as leaders in their fields. Columbus McKinnon specializes in designing and manufacturing intelligent motion solutions, while Kito Crosby has set the benchmark in the lifting industry for over 260 years. The merger of their expertise positions the new entity to set a new standard of excellence and safety.

Their combined experience in engineering, manufacturing, and operational excellence will drive innovation in products designed to meet the most demanding applications worldwide. Whether it’s a simple hoist or a sophisticated material handling system, this partnership brings forth an innovative future for customers looking for reliable and efficient lifting solutions.

Looking Ahead

The road ahead is filled with potential as Columbus McKinnon integrates Kito Crosby into its operations, fostering a culture of seamless collaboration and enhanced service delivery. With a dedicated leadership team, a focus on customer-centric solutions, and a commitment to innovation, this merger is not just about expanding market share; it’s about setting a new standard in the lifting solutions industry.

Columbus McKinnon is now better equipped than ever to move forward, promising not only to meet industry expectations but to redefine them, heralding a new chapter in lifting and securing the world's materials safely and effectively.