Sabroe A/S of Denmark

York International acquires Sabroe A/S of Denmark

June 10, 1999 (PD: 201711)

York International completed the largest acquisition in its history by purchasing Sabroe A/S of Aarhus, Denmark on June 10, 1999 for $407 million.

By acquiring one of the world’s leading suppliers of industrial refrigeration systems and products, York itself became the world leader in that business, nearly doubling its sales while raising operating income by over 60%.

York CEO Bob Pokelwaldt stated “the acquisition of Sabroe will expand our Refrigeration Group’s global reach and bring together two highly complementary product lines and market positions, while dramatically enhancing our aftermarket service business.  …  This acquisition helps us realize one of our long-term strategic goals.”

Founded in 1897, Sabroe had revenues in 1998 of approximately $700 million.  Its 4,800 employees maintained offices and operations in over 100 countries, including Denmark, Sweden, Italy, Brazil, India, and the United States.

Since Johnson Controls acquired York in 2005, it has continued to manufacture and market refrigeration equipment under the Sabroe brand name.