Great Dane Trailers, Savannah, Ga., said it purchased Johnson Refrigerated Truck Bodies, a Rice Lake, Wis., supplier of insulated fiberglass refrigerated truck bodies and all-electric refrigeration solutions.

"For Great Dane, the purchase ... is a strategic addition to the semi-trailer manufacturer's sales platform," officials said. "By expanding its product offerings in refrigerated transportation equipment, Great Dane reinforces its commitment as a market leader to fully serve the food service industry."

Officials noted that a significant overlap with Great Dane's customer base will both support and expand Johnson's truck body business. In addition, Johnson will have access to Great Dane's network of distribution, parts and service centers.

"Great Dane is pleased to join Johnson Refrigerated Truck Bodies in serving the complex needs of refrigerated customers," said Phill Pines, Great Dane president and COO. "Both our companies and our customers will benefit from this partnership."

Added Johnson Refrigerated Truck Bodies President Ron Ricci, "This is an exciting milestone for our company, and we look forward to scaling our growth as part of Great Dane," he said.  "Great Dane's global reach, scale, widely recognized brand and worldwide dealer and customer relationships make this the ideal partnership."

Great Dane Trailers manufactures dry van, refrigerated and platform trailers and operates division offices in Savannah and Chicago. Johnson Refrigerated Truck Bodies produces custom fiberglass, specialized refrigerated truck bodies and trailers that range from 8 to 36 feet in length.