Ernst Paul Lehmann Patentwerk, parent firm of LGB, has transferred ownership of LGB of America to a new firm, U.S.-based G45. “In these changing times you have to keep moving forward,” said Rolf Richter, managing general partner of E.P. Lehmann Patentwerk. “This move forward provides new opportunities for us, for LGB of America, and for our friends in the United States.”
David Buffington, president of G45 and longtime publicist for LGB of America, is excited about the opportunities the ownership transfer presents. “LGB of America began as a service center for LGB owners in North America. It’s now very different. It now distributes LGB trains, Piko structures, and Noch accessories. Of course, LGB is and will remain our top brand and market leader in large scale, but this change will allow us to also offer other interesting products.”
Buffington said the move will create new opportunities as well. “LGB of America already has a well-earned reputation for service to LGB owners, and we now hope to offer consumers even more in terms of repair, upgrade, and service.”
Tony Castellano will remain chief operating officer of LGB of America, and both Buffington and Richter emphasized that their companies will continue to work together. “We have a very good relationship with LGB of America, and we will work very closely with the firm to produce new models North American modelers will want,” Richter said.