Situation:

In the Spring of 2007, Wireco WorldGroup (WWG), a world leader in the manufacturing, engineering and distribution of wire rope, wire rope assemblies, high carbon wire, and electromechanical cable, was exploring a potential acquisition of CASAR Drahtseilwerk Saar, a manufacturer of wire rope based in Kirkel, Germany.

CASAR develops, produces and distributes special wire ropes for cranes and other lifting devices. With production capacity of 18,000 tons and employing 380 people, CASAR is one of the leading wire rope manufacturers in Europe.

Ameridan’s Role:

As an important first step in its due-diligence process, WWG asked Ameridan for assistance in better understanding the European market for wire rope and CASAR’s position within that market.

Ameridan assembled a project team that included market consultants based in London, Germany, France, and China. The project entailed a broad assessment of the European market and the target’s strategic and competitive position. It included:

• An examination of the market’s perception of CASAR’s product and service capabilities;
• An assessment of CASAR’s competitive position across main customer segments; and
• A broad description of the European market for wire rope including estimates of size and market shares of major competitors.