Texas firm acquires Lowell-based Shipley Motor Equipment Co.

Bruckner Truck Sales of Amarillo, Texas, one of the largest and oldest Mack and Volvo semi truck dealers in the U.S., has expanded to Arkansas with the recent acquisition of Shipley Motor Equipment Co. Shipley is a third-generation Mack, Hino and Volvo truck dealer headquartered in Lowell with dealerships in Fort Smith and Pottsville.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed in a news release Tuesday (Jan. 5). Both companies are a third-generation family operated business with deep roots in the trucking industry. Bruckner started in 1932. Shipley was founded in 1946. The most recent owner and CEO, Carl Shipley II, has retired.

“We are excited to expand our presence into the Arkansas area with the acquisition of Shipley’s,” Bruckner Truck Sales President Brian Bruckner said in a statement. “They have a history of providing great customer service and a ‘Do what it takes’ attitude.  We will continue to provide that same level of service with the existing team.”

Bruckner said Shipley Motor Equipment Co.’s 83 employees all now work for Bruckner, which has 1,074 employees.

As a part of Bruckner’s dealership group, according to the release, Arkansas customers can expect a larger inventory of Mack, Volvo and Hino trucks, an extensive parts inventory and new service offerings. Bruckner’s will continue operating an existing body shop in Lowell.

“Since 1932, Bruckner’s has invested in our people to provide the highest level of service,” vice president Chris Bruckner said. “This is done by continuous training and development of our team to ensure our customers receive the best service possible. We look forward to maintaining this approach with our newest team members in Arkansas.

“We are excited to build upon the business Shipley has established and demonstrate our commitment to providing best in class trucks, parts, and service.  We will be investing in our facilities, tools and equipment to ensure our customers receive the best support needed to run their business.  Whether it is the proprietary or all-makes brands we represent for trucks and trailers, we will have you covered.”

Chris and Brian Bruckner are grandsons of company founder B.M. “Benny” Bruckner Sr. Bruckner’s store network now spans seven states with 30 locations throughout the southwest.