Phoenix, AZ-based Cavco Industries, Inc., which owns 50 percent of Fleetwood Homes, Inc., has agreed to acquire the other 50 percent from Third Avenue Value Fund and an affiliate, according to nasdaq.com. Cavco will issue common stock to Third Avenue in consideration as per their original 2009 agreement in forming Fleetwood, which also includes Palm Harbor Homes, CountryPlace Mortgage, and Standard Casualty. Joseph Stegmayer, Cavco Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer said, “We believe that the opportunity to obtain full ownership of these operations is attractive at this time. Although the manufactured housing industry remains challenged by overall economic conditions, we are encouraged by recent reports of improved general housing demand, consumer confidence, and unemployment levels. We have been fully responsible for operating the Fleetwood Homes business since August 2009 and the Palm Harbor Homes and related finance and insurance businesses since 2011. The opportunity to now consummate full ownership is clearly beneficial financially and will also eliminate certain administrative activities required of a joint venture.” As MHProNews knows, Cavco is the second largest producer of manufactured homes in the country, and also makes park model homes, vacation cabins and modular homes.
