Safe Fleet Acquires Rolling Tarp System Provider

Safe Fleet, a supplier of safety solutions for fleet vehicles, extended its tarp system capabilities with the acquisition of Merlot Vango Tarping Solutions, a provider of rolling tarpaulin systems for flatbed and platform trailers.

Merlot Vango Tarping Solutions is a designer, manufacturer, installer, and servicer of rolling tarpaulin systems and replacement parts. For over sixty years, Merlot has set an industry standard in helping protect and secure valuable cargo and minimize risks to drivers and roadways with tarpaulin solutions.

“Merlot is a perfect addition to our existing tarping systems business, adding breadth to our product portfolio to serve a key commercial vehicle market segment,” says John R. Knox, Safe Fleet Chairman & CEO. “Their innovative products combined with exceptional installation and aftermarket parts and service support will add to the Safe Fleet value proposition for commercial vehicle fleets and operators.”

Merlot Vango rolling tarp systems are functional, durable, easy-to-operate, and simple to maintain. According to a company release, this makes it a natural fit within Safe Fleet Commercial Vehicle Group’s existing tarp system portfolio that includes automated and semi-automated system brands such as Roll-Rite and Pulltarps.

“We are excited to join Safe Fleet,” says Robert Schwab, President of Merlot Vango Tarping Solutions. “With Safe Fleet’s investment in the Merlot platform, we will continue to enhance our industry leading service to fleets and dealers while expanding our geographic reach.”

Merlot Vango is located in Verona, Pennsylvania, just outside of Pittsburgh. The existing leadership team will continue to manage the business post-acquisition.