Safe Fleet acquires rolling tarp provider

Safe Fleet has extended its tarp system capabilities with the acquisition of Merlot Vango Tarping Solutions, an industry-leading provider of rolling tarpaulin systems for flatbed and platform trailers.

This is Safe Fleet's second acquisition in less than a year.

Merlot Vango Tarping Solutions is a leading designer, manufacturer, installer and servicer of innovative rolling tarpaulin systems and replacement parts. Merlot’s unique segmented design provides the industry’s highest level of durability and lowest lifetime costs for fleets of all sizes and for truck and trailer owner/operators.

For over 60 years, Merlot has set an industry standard in helping protect and secure valuable cargo and minimize risks to drivers and roadways with tarpaulin solutions. Merlot Vango Tarping Solutions is a premium brand with a long-standing reputation, Safe Fleet says. Its Vango rolling tarp systems are the most functional, most durable, easiest-to-operate, and simplest to maintain systems on America’s highways, making it a natural fit within Safe Fleet Commercial Vehicle Group’s existing tarp system portfolio that includes automated and semi-automated system brands such as Roll-Rite and Pulltarps, the company adds.

“Merlot is a perfect addition to our existing tarping systems business, adding breadth to our product portfolio to serve a key commercial vehicle market segment,” says John R. Knox, Safe Fleet chairman and CEO. “Their innovative products combined with exceptional installation and aftermarket parts and service support will add to the Safe Fleet value proposition for commercial vehicle fleets and operators.”

“We are excited to join Safe Fleet,” says Robert Schwab, president of Merlot Vango Tarping Solutions. “With Safe Fleet’s investment in the Merlot platform, we will continue to enhance our industry leading service to fleets and dealers while expanding our geographic reach.”

Merlot Vango is located in Verona, Pa., just outside of Pittsburgh and the existing leadership team will continue to manage the business post-acquisition.