Freudenberg-NOK Sealing Technologies (FNST) has, together with its aftermarket division Corteco, acquired Alto Products Corp. In the press release, Alto is described as the world’s oldest and largest independently owned manufacturer of clutch plates and components for automatic transmissions. According to FNST, this step strengthens Freudenberg’s position in the North American and global aftermarket and expands the product and service offering for customers worldwide.
Alto Products Corp. has a 270,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Atmore, Alabama, and also has sales and distribution locations in Mexico, the Netherlands, and China. According to the text, the family-owned company has around 240 employees, 230 of whom are based in the United States. Alto is known for friction plates, steel reaction plates, and complete kits for automatic transmissions, for applications in the automotive, heavy-duty, and marine sectors.
FNST states that the acquisition enables it to offer complete transmission rebuild solutions by integrating Alto’s friction and steel plates into new product offerings. The press release mentions several effects, including growth in the heavy-duty and recreational vehicle segments, increased vertical integration, improved risk management, and stronger supply chain resilience due to Alto’s U.S.-centric manufacturing. FNST also says its international reach will expand through Alto’s presence in Latin America and Asia, and that opportunities will arise to consolidate product lines and operations within FNST’s global footprint.
Dr. Christian Dickopf (Senior Vice President, Corteco Division) says in the text that with this acquisition FNST is not only expanding its portfolio, but also underscoring its commitment to delivering “comprehensive, high-quality solutions,” with Alto’s legacy, technical expertise, and brand position in the aftermarket aligning with the strategic vision. Judy Love (North American Vice President, Corteco) also states that the collaboration strengthens the ability to deliver complete solutions in North America and worldwide, and that Alto’s team is being welcomed into Freudenberg. Finally, the press release describes the acquisition as a strategic step that underlines FNST’s focus on long-term growth, operational excellence, and customer-centric innovation in the transmission aftermarket.
Source
Freudenberg Sealing Technologies and Corteco (announcement of the acquisition of Alto Products Corp.) (press release, 04-11-2025).
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