Press Release | Heron acquires assets from flush self-pierce riveting business

Danville, United States, Jan. 15, 2024: Heron Intelligent Equipment Co. Ltd, a leading provider of metal joining equipment, has acquired the business assets of flush self-pierce riveting specialist AKH with main facilities in Danville, Indiana. The partial asset purchase offers Heron exclusive rights to sell the AKH fas-ner and an opportunity to serve a fast-growing assembly market in North America, with state-of-the art riveting technology.

AKH is a pioneer and market leader in flush self-pierce riveting (FSPR), a mechanical fastening process for joining two or more sheets of material where welding is difficult, e.g. aluminum and steel. The majority of AKH assets, which had been privately owned for over 40 years, was purchased from the family of the late George Hahn. Heron had agreed in principle to acquire AKH assets in November 2023 with negotiations led by AKH President Gary Caulk.

Heron purchased its first production line from AKH in January 2019 and developed a complete rivet solution for high-end sports cars manufactured by GAC Group. With Heron’s investment, AKH will be able to serve more segments in the e-mobility industry with advanced joining technologies, as well as design and manufacturing solutions. The brand will continue to do business as “AKH-Heron Technologies”. Adam Blaikie will be the new President of Heron Technologies USA Inc. (doing business as AKH-Heron Technologies).

Learn more about AKH, who became part of HERON Technologies USA, by clicking here

For further information please contact: 

• Rene Zou, Head of International Business & ESG, Heron Intelligent Equipment, +1 463-266-7123 (USA)
• Adam Blaikie, President, Heron Technologies USA (dba AKH-Heron Technologies), +1 317 809 6550 (USA)

Heron Intelligent Equipment Co. Ltd. is a high-tech metal connection equipment manufacturer that specialises in the R&D and manufacturing of resistance welding, clinching and riveting technology. Established in 1991, Heron has developed advanced welders and automated production lines for customers in the automotive parts & components, compressor, low-voltage electronics, home appliances, industrial manufacturing, among other industries. In 2023, Heron had more than 400 skilled employees and a factory of 54,000 square meters.

AKH Inc. is a leading provider of riveting solutions that elimate spot welding and pop-riveting. The company serves customers in industries including automotive, appliances, trucking and industrial manufacturing. The company was founded in 1981, is based in Danville, Indiana, and has sold to over 500 customers spanning North America. Principal product development and customers are located in the U.S.