03.03.2015

Manlift parent expands

Universal Manufacturing, the parent company of Milwaukee based Manlift Manufacturing has acquired Ultra Machine & Fabrication and Ultra Armoring, of Shelby, North Carolina. Frank Stewart, owner of both companies, will continue as a consultant to the new operation names Metal Works Manufacturing.

With this additional acquisition, and its current order book, Universal is forecasting revenues in excess of $40 million its next full year.

Universal president Don Dunn said: "This acquisition permits Universal to enter new and exciting markets - contract manufacturing and government contracting. The new operation will perform all current contract obligations of the acquired companies. We have extended employment offers to the Ultra employees and we are working with the State of North Carolina on a plan to potentially add further jobs in the near future. We intend to leverage our existing customer base to enhance and expand our contract manufacturing and expand strategic relationships with OEMs."

Stewart added: "Universal Manufacturing brings talent and opportunities that will make the Ultra companies more successful than they have been and will allow us to keep these jobs here in Cleveland County."