Redneck Trailer acquired by Indiana company

Springfield-based Redneck Trailer Supplies has been acquired after four decades of family ownership.

Elkhart, Indiana, trailer axle manufacturer Dexter Axle Co., a subsidiary of Novi, Michigan-based DexKo Global Inc., penned a deal for 100% of the equity interests in Redneck Inc. and Redline Products LLC. The business collectively known as Redneck Trailer was acquired from the Giddens family, according to a news release issued last week. Financial terms of the deal were undisclosed.

"First and foremost, we want to thank all the loyal customers and employees that have supported our endeavor, some of which have been there with us nearly 40 years," said Ernie Giddens, CEO, chair and founder of Redneck Trailer, in the release. "We will always cherish the friendships and relationships we have forged with all of you and your children as they have grown up and become active in your businesses today.

"We will miss you all and wish you the very best in the years to come.”

Through the deal, Dexter Axle gains Redneck Trailer's 20 locations in 17 states that employ nearly 400 people. With headquarters in northwest Springfield, the company sells stocked trailer parts and accessories to manufacturers, dealers and retailers. Redneck Trailer was an authorized Dexter Axle distributor.

A Dexter spokesperson could not be reached immediately for comment by deadline.

Dexter was founded in 1960 and now has more than 3,100 employees at 17 manufacturing centers and 14 distribution facilities in the United States and Canada, according to the release.

"Bringing these two companies together will allow us to concentrate on operational excellence by partnering with our current and new employees, suppliers and customers," Dexter President and CEO Adam Dexter said in the release. "Our companies’ core foundations of providing outstanding customer service align exceptionally well."