TRELLEBORG, Sweden -- Trelleborg has signed an agreement and finalized the divestment of its gas spring operation. The operation, located in France, is part of the Trelleborg Automotive business area. The operation was sold to French company Defta S.A., as part of Trelleborg Group’s strategy to refocus on selected segments.

“The divestment is in line with our strategy for Trelleborg," said Jim Law, business area president for Trelleborg Automotive. "The divestment will enable us to focus further on our core operations and on segments that for us have a potential to develop. The divestment is a niche operation with a strong local presence and it is gratifying that a new owner will be taking over and continuing to develop the operation."

Gas springs are used to lift, open, close and adjust doors, windows and seating in automotive, agricultural and industrial applications.

The divested operation has annual sales of approximately SEK 110 million and about 110 employees. The purchase consideration is approximately SEK 60 million.