Columbus McKinnon and Kito Crosby complete business combination

The business combination of Columbus McKinnon and Kito Crosby has been completed designed to create, “an even stronger partner to support [customers’] lifting and intelligent motion needs.”

Following today’s announcement, the businesses are beginning the work of integrating the two companies. During this time the organisation has reiterated its commitment to  maintaining business continuity and providing stability and support as it comes together, and it is committed to working closely with customers to ensure their needs are met throughout the process.

The reorganisation of the executive leadership team, including functional and regional leaders, will be comprised of best-in-class talent from legacy Columbus McKinnon and Kito Crosby.

Specifically, the new regional leadership team will work closely with customers to navigate the transition and build a solid foundation for a long-term partnerships

Yoshio Kito will take the role of president of Asia Pacific for the combined business. Yoshio held this role for Kito Crosby and will now assume leadership of this region for Columbus McKinnon’s business in Asia as well.

Wim Fabricius will assume the role of president of Europe, Middle East, and Africa for the combined business. Previously, Wim had this role for Kito Crosby and will now also lead Columbus McKinnon’s business in this market.

Appal Chintapalli will take on the role of president of the Americas. Appal most recently served as the president of Columbus McKinnon’s Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific regions and has been with the company since 2019.

Jon Backes, as president of Americas Lifting Hardware, and Carlo Lonardi, as president of Americas Hoist & Cranes, will continue to serve in significant executive leadership roles in the Americas, reporting to Appal Chintapalli. Jon will oversee business related to chain and rigging hardware, and Carlo will oversee the business related to manual hoists, powered hoists, and crane components and technology.

Robert Desel, chief executive officer of Kito Crosby, will be transitioning from the company. He will continue to support David Wilson, president and CEO of Columbus McKinnon in an advisory role as we bring our two organizations together.

David said, “ I want to personally thank Robert and the entire Kito Crosby leadership team for successfully positioning their business for this exciting next chapter.”

Aside from the leadership changes announced today, David said that nothing will change at this time. Contacts, ordering processes, pricing, and all other aspects of customers’ relationship with Columbus McKinnon or Kito Crosby will remain the same.

He said, “As you know, we recently announced the divestiture of Columbus McKinnon’s US power chain hoist and chain operations. We are working to complete this transaction in the coming months and will keep [customers] updated as more information is available. Please look for additional information from business leaders as we make progress on the integration of Columbus McKinnon and Kito Crosby, as well as the divestiture.

“Thank you for your continued trust and partnership as we unite two industry leaders to better serve you. As we transition, I encourage you to reach out to me or any member of our business leadership team to discuss how we can best support you going forward.”