LAS VEGAS (Feb. 7, 2012) — Meritor Inc. and Fras-le S.A. have renewed an exclusive five-year commercial supply agreement for brake lining for the U.S. and Canadian commercial vehicle markets.
The companies, which made the announcement at the recent 2012 Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week in Las Vegas, said they have “enjoyed a successful supply partnership for 15 years, including the co-development of friction materials to address the needs of North American commercial vehicles.” Joe Mejaly, president of Meritor Aftermarket and Trailers, added that “Fras-le is extremely committed to quality friction materials and exceeding the expectations of both production and aftermarket customers.”
Under the commercial agreement, Fras-le said it will continue to supply friction materials to Meritor for both production and aftermarket consumption. Fras-le aftermarket brake lining products are exclusively distributed in the U.S. and Canada through Meritor's North American facilities—including distribution centers in Plainfield, Ind.; Brampton, Ontario.; and Florence, Ky. Meritor said it offers a broad range of Fras-le friction materials in either Meritor or Fras-le brands to serve customers in linehaul, severe service, transit bus and other commercial applications in North America.
Zomar Oliveira, Fras-le North America's director of operations, said the company “is excited to continue its strategic partnership with Meritor in North America. We are proud that our commitment to being a global leader in friction technology and innovation has helped Meritor continue its market leadership position in brake systems.”
Fras-le, which has its North American corporate headquarters in the Detroit suburb of Northville, Mich., makes friction materials for light and commercial vehicles, as well as off-road vehicles. The company manufacturing facility is in Prattville, Ala. Troy, Mich.-based Meritor supplies drivetrain, mobility, braking and aftermarket solutions for commercial vehicle and industrial markets.