The deal is subject to approval: if permitted by the antitrust authorities, Krone will make use of Schwarzmüller’s sales and manufacturing footprint to extend its market presence in Europe and expand its distribution capacity.

He takes over from Chief Operating Officer Thomas Biringer, who led Schwarzmüller on an interim basis after the resignation of former CEO Roland Hartwig in 2023.

Daniela Lorenzer was appointed to the role of Chief Financial Officer in October 2023 and Maik Spindler was appointed Chief Sales Officer in January 2024.

Schwarzmüller cited increasing materials and energy costs, and “an unsteady market environment”, as factors which contributed to the lower sales figures in 2023.

Paletar announced she has removed the position of CEO and reshuffled the management following her acquisition of all the company shares.

The Austrian trailer builder’s performance in 2022 outstripped its sales in the previous year by 9% (EUR409m).

The Austrian manufacturer also increased production of trailers by 12% compared to 2020.

Wieshofer, who joins the Austrian trailer manufacturer from Rosenhauer, will be responsible for restructuring international sales.

The Austrian trailer manufacturer sees Poland as a key market and aims to increase its market share to double figures within the next five years.

idem telematics GmbH of Ulm, Germany (a BPW Bergische Achsen KG subsidiary) and trailer manufacturer, Wilhelm Schwarzmüller GmbH of Freinberg, Austria have signed a comprehensive and multi-year co-operation agreement aimed at making the connected-trailer the standard in the commercial vehicle industry.

The Austrian trailer firm intends to take advantage of Hüffermann's expertise in the construction and infrastructure vehicle sectors in order to increase its market share particularly in Germany.

Austrian trailer manufacturer, Schwarzmüller Group, has opened a new branch outlet in Germany by acquiring a service and repair location in Eltmann.