News Summary
American Seating Co., a historic manufacturer in Grand Rapids, has been acquired by GR Seating, LLC, a joint venture between NFI Group Inc. and GILLIG LLC. This acquisition, finalized recently, aims to ensure operational stability, retain the workforce, and promote future growth. American Seating is set to relocate to a new corporate headquarters by the end of 2025. With a rich legacy dating back to 1886, the company continues to innovate in the seating manufacturing sector, solidifying its future under the new partnership.
Grand Rapids, MI – American Seating Co., a long-standing manufacturer based in Grand Rapids, has been acquired by GR Seating, LLC, a new joint venture established by NFI Group Inc. and GILLIG LLC. The acquisition was finalized on October 21, 2025. Terms of the sale were not disclosed, but it marks a significant shift in the operations and future of American Seating.
GR Seating, LLC has purchased all assets belonging to American Seating, which include the company’s equipment, inventory, brand identity, and intellectual property. Following the acquisition, GR Seating, LLC plans to continue operating under the established American Seating brand while maintaining operational headquarters in Grand Rapids. This move aims to ensure stability and promote future growth for the company.
The joint venture has expressed a firm commitment to retaining the existing union workforce and investing in the manufacturer’s development. The current contract with UAW Local 135, which represents more than 170 employees, will remain unchanged, ensuring job security for American Seating’s workforce amidst the transition.
American Seating has a storied history dating back to 1886 when it began its journey as Grand Rapids School Furniture. The company pioneered the first-ever combined desk and chair for schools and later shifted its focus in 1931 to manufacturing seats for buses and other forms of transportation. This rich legacy of innovation positioned American Seating as a notable player in the seating manufacturing sector.
Ed Clark, the current chairman of American Seating, is expected to remain involved in a consulting capacity following the acquisition, alongside former CEO Tom Bush. This continuity in leadership is believed to be beneficial in guiding the company through this pivotal change while ensuring ongoing support for customers.
In addition to stabilizing operations, the acquisition is set to provide a financial boost facilitating the company’s planned relocation to a new corporate headquarters. American Seating has announced plans to move from its longstanding facility at 801 Broadway Ave. NW to a new location at 1040 40th St. SE in Grand Rapids by the end of 2025. However, the move has encountered delays due to legal issues with contractors. The completion of the new headquarters is anticipated in 2026.
Both parent companies in the joint venture play significant roles in the transportation industry. NFI Group specializes in sustainable bus and motorcoach solutions, while GILLIG LLC is known for manufacturing heavy-duty transit buses. The strategic partnership formed through GR Seating, LLC allows for shared expertise and resources aimed at enhancing operational performance and improving delivery timelines for customers.
The governing structure of the joint venture will include equal representation on the board of directors from both partners, overseeing an independent management team. This balanced approach is expected to facilitate effective decision-making and foster growth, benefiting American Seating and its customers alike.
As the acquisition unfolds, American Seating remains poised to enhance its service offerings, ensuring it stays competitive in a challenging market while continuing its legacy of quality and innovation. The unified efforts of GR Seating, LLC aim to solidify American Seating’s future within the seating manufacturing landscape.
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Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
