European EXEL Industries has merged its two U.S. operations under the new name of EXEL North America Inc., responsible for EXEL Industries' Canadian, U.S. and Mexican operations.

The merger brings three finishing and extrusion equipment brands under one company banner. Sames makes electrostatic equipment for liquid and powder applications; Rexson manufactures guns, pumps and accessories for sealant and adhesive applications; and Kremlin makes non-electrostatic guns, pumps and accessories for thin fluid applications. According to EXEL, the combined three brands offer the widest range of controlled application equipment for finishing and extrusion in the world.

The merger will optimize the North American administration and logistical functions; enhance manufacturing and R&D; and retain a market-focused sales, marketing and service group.

EXEL North America has a Livonia, Mich., operation, serving the automotive assembly and feeder manufacturing markets. A West Chicago, Ill., operation serves the wood and general industrial manufacturing markets. A Canadian operation in Scarborough, Ont., and a Mexican operation in Monterrey, NL, each serve all four markets in their respective countries.

John Patry, president says, "We have grown substantially as separate entities. The creation of EXEL North America strengthens our leadership position and further energizes our team."