Vermeer Takes Stake in Wildcat Mfg.

Vermeer Manufacturing Co., Pella, Iowa, has announced plans to purchase a 50 percent stake in Wildcat Mfg. Co. Inc., a Freeman, S.D.-based manufacturer of compost turners and trommel screens. Vermeer will assume management responsibility for the operation. The agreement is expected to be finalized this summer.

"Vermeer has been engaged in the composting market for a decade with our tub and horizontal grinder line," says Mike Byram, senior director of environmental solutions for Vermeer. "We believe current industry trends and regulations will continue to divert organic matter from landfills and fuel additional growth in this market."

The purchase of an interest in Wildcat complements the growing line of tub and horizontal grinders and compost turning equipment manufactured by Vermeer.