Mining crusher parts shake up as CMS Cepcor acquires key assets from Columbia Steel

Jan 29, 2024

CMS Cepcor Group has reached an agreement with Columbia Steel Casting Co Inc to purchase key commercial and technical assets while Columbia Steel's plant in Portland, Oregon has closed after a history dating back to 1901. The agreement will see the CMS Cepcor Group incorporate a new company called Columbia Steel Cast Products LLC, which will trade independently as Columbia Steel and retain the key Columbia Steel engineering, sales, and commercial team.

The CMS Cepcor Group says it is excited to further expand its global footprint, as well as grow the respected reputation Columbia Steel has held in the aggregate and mining marketplace for decades. Mike Moehnke, Columbia Sales and Marketing Director, explains: "Columbia Steel customers will be able to get the same parts in the same alloys they have come to depend upon, and moving forwards they will be able to do so at more competitive price point. In addition, key individuals in engineering and sales will be coming on-board to provide a smooth customer service transition."

There is also a personal side to this new chapter in the story of Columbia Steel, as noted by Martha Cox, Columbia CEO, who is among the third generation of her family to be part of the company. "With joy and excitement, we’re looking forward to 2023 and a new beginning for the Columbia Steel brand. Our Portland, Oregon manufacturing plant has closed, but we’re proud that our legacy will continue in the North American market under the Columbia Steel name, backed by the considerable skill and support of CMS Cepcor."

Chris Sydenham, the CEO of CMS Cepcor Group's US operations said the following: "Columbia Steel is a company which I have looked up to and admired since I started my career in this industry 25 years ago. As a long-proven market leader in crusher liner optimisation, with strong technical capabilities and genuine customer focus, Columbia Steel is well aligned with CMS Cepcor. It was a pleasure working on this agreement with Martha and her team, and to reach such a positive outcome that will guarantee Columbia Steel's legacy and positive impact on the industry will continue."

CMS Cepcor is a global aftermarket leader in the design, manufacture, and supply of premium replacement parts to suit the leading crushing brands and models including all popular gyratory, cone, and jaw crushers. It says: "We have been the genuine alternative since 1960 and remain headquartered in the United Kingdom, distributing our products to over 140 countries and have facilities in three continents."