IN THE NEWS: Spartan Motors Acquires Classic Fire

Spartan Motors, Inc. acquired Classic Fire of Ocala, Fla., an apparatus manufacturer known for performance, durability and value.

Spartan described Classic Fire’s leadership team as iconic and said the company enjoys a strong reputation across the industry for innovation, speed and practicality.

“The acquisition of Classic Fire is a clear validation of Spartan Motors’ strategic intent,” said Spartan Chief Executive Officer John Sztykiel. “This move illustrates our continued commitment to enhance our leadership position within the emergency response industry.”

He said Classic Fire brings to Spartan Motors an expansive set of growth opportunities enhanced by technology and innovation, people and culture, products and a long-term strategic fit.

Spartan said Classic’s broad product portfolio consists of mini-pumpers, tankers, brush trucks, quick attacks, urban interface and light rescues. In 2010, according to Spartan, Classic Fire generated revenues of approximately $10 million.

As examples of Classic’s technology and innovation, Spartan cited:

• An aluminum extruded body structure with one of the highest strength-to-weight ratios in the industry.
• One-touch discharge controls for the compressed air foam system (CAFS) integrated into the truck’s multiplex system.
• A proprietary system of pump modules.

Regarding Classic’s leadership team, Spartan noted that co-founder Ron Ewers has more than 30 years of industry experience and President Jim White has more than 30 years of experience with a focus on manufacturing and operations. He said they Ewers and White will continue to lead Classic Fire’s operations as well as assist elsewhere in the Spartan organization.

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