LAFAYETTE, Ind., March 20, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wabash National Corporation (NYSE: WNC ), a diversified industrial manufacturer and North America's leading producer of semi-trailers and liquid transportation systems, today announced an agreement with Australian-based Mezz Trailers to bring Wabash National®, Transcraft® and Benson® brand trailers to the Australian market.
"The relationship with Mezz Trailers is another step in executing Wabash National Corporation's strategic plan as we expand into new markets," explained Dick Giromini, president and chief executive officer of Wabash National Corporation.
"Although manufacturing a product for export can be challenging, our manufacturing operations are capable of building to a diverse set of customer needs," added Brent Yeagy, group president of Commercial Trailer Products at Wabash National. "We're pleased to offer new trailer options designed for the harsh conditions Australian fleets face in their daily operations."
Wabash National products that will soon be available to the Australian market through Mezz Trailers include:
- Wabash National DuraPlate® dry vans
- Wabash National ArcticLite® refrigerated vans
- Transcraft® steel and hybrid flatbed and drop deck trailers
- Benson® aluminum flatbed and drop deck trailers
"Our innovation leadership in the North American transportation industry has been recognized with nearly 100 patents in the United States and globally, and our solutions continue to shape the way trailers are built today," said Robert Lane, director of product and business development of Commercial Trailer Products at Wabash National. "We believe our success in Australia will largely be attributed to the fact that both Mezz Trailers and Wabash National are focused on innovation, superior product performance and a commitment to customer satisfaction."
The rugged conditions and long hauls of 2,000 to 3,000 miles in Australia can prove harsh for many international brands of trailers. Wabash National uses steel grades that exceed Australian standards, which will provide a competitive advantage in the market place. In addition, Mezz Trailers has ensured that components on the Wabash National trailers meet Australian regulations and are available locally, along with warranty support.
"I have spent the past 20 years in the trailer industry in Western Australia," said Nigel Withnell, sales manager for Mezz Trailers. "What excites me about the partnership is being able to provide our customers with a world-class, quality product. This goes hand in hand with being able to offer after sales service and support. I feel confident that we can do that for our client base. In working in partnership with Wabash, we will be working with a household name in trailers — one that is extremely well-respected around the world."
Mezz Trailers works closely with clients to offer innovative semi-trailer solutions. Located in East Victoria Park, Western Australia, Mezz Trailers has been experiencing double-digit growth in trailer sales every year since its founding in July 2011.
Wabash National, Transcraft and Benson trailers will be available from Mezz Trailers beginning July 2014.
For U.S. fleets interested in learning more about the availability of these products in Australia, please contact Sean Kenney, vice president of sales for Commercial Trailer Products, at (765) 771-5300.
About Wabash National Corporation
Headquartered in Lafayette, Ind., Wabash National Corporation (NYSE: WNC ) is a diversified industrial manufacturer and North America's leading producer of semi trailers and liquid transportation systems. Established in 1985, the company specializes in the design and production of dry freight vans, refrigerated vans, platform trailers, liquid tank trailers, intermodal equipment, engineered products and composite products. Its innovative products are sold under the following brand names: Wabash National®, Transcraft®, Benson®, DuraPlate®, Walker Transport, Walker Defense Group, Walker Barrier Systems, Walker Engineered Products, Brenner® Tank, Beall®, Garsite, Progress Tank, TST®, Bulk Tank International and Extract Technology®. To learn more, visit www.wabashnational.com .
Media Contact: Dana Stelsel Corporate Communications Manager (765) 771-5766
