Premium Guard Acquires First Brands Group Assets

Premium Guard Inc. (PGI) has significantly amplified its operational footprint in the automotive aftermarket by finalizing the second stage of its acquisition of select assets from First Brands Group. This strategic move, concluded on June 17, 2026, injects substantial new capabilities into PGI's North American operations, enhancing its manufacturing prowess, engineering depth, and distribution reach.

The latest transaction integrates advanced production lines for critical filtration components—oil, air, and cabin air filters—previously housed in Albion, Illinois. Furthermore, key machinery from the historic FRAM facility in Greenville, Ohio, is now part of PGI's asset base. These additions are slated for consolidation into a state-of-the-art filtration manufacturing hub, positioning the company at the forefront of industry innovation. This consolidation is expected to create one of the most technologically advanced filtration production centers in the sector.

Beyond manufacturing, PGI has secured a substantial fifth distribution center in Hebron, Kentucky. This expansive 730,000-square-foot facility will bolster the logistical network supporting prominent brands such as Autolite, TRICO, FRAM, and LuberFiner. The integration of these distribution capabilities is crucial for meeting the growing demand across various market segments, including retail, traditional repair shops, quick lube services, and the rapidly expanding e-commerce channel.

This acquisition represents a pivotal moment for Premium Guard Inc., a company already recognized for its premium automotive filtration solutions. The integration of First Brands Group's legacy assets, including iconic brands with deep market penetration, is more than a simple asset purchase. As stated by Anan Bishara, Founder and CEO of Premium Guard Inc., "This transaction is much more than an acquisition of assets; it is a strategic investment in the future of Premium Guard and our customers." He emphasized that the infusion of advanced manufacturing, engineering talent, and distribution infrastructure will accelerate the company's strategic objectives.

The operational expansion is also set to revitalize employment within the industry, with approximately 300 jobs being reinstated across engineering, manufacturing, product management, and operations. This influx of skilled personnel is vital for driving forward PGI's ambitious plans, including a comprehensive relaunch of LuberFiner's heavy-duty and industrial filtration programs. The enhanced capacity and expertise will enable PGI to deliver more innovative and robust filtration solutions to its diverse customer base throughout North America.

The automotive aftermarket filtration sector is a significant segment within the broader automotive parts industry, valued in the billions globally. Trends such as increasing vehicle parc, longer service intervals, and a growing demand for higher-performance and environmentally conscious filtration solutions continue to drive market growth. PGI's strategic expansion positions it to capitalize on these trends, strengthening its competitive standing against other major players in the filtration market.

This move by Premium Guard Inc. underscores a broader trend of consolidation and strategic investment within the automotive aftermarket. Companies are increasingly looking to enhance their domestic manufacturing capabilities and supply chain resilience, particularly in light of recent global disruptions. By integrating these key assets from First Brands Group, PGI is not only expanding its physical and operational capacity but also reinforcing its market position and commitment to serving the evolving needs of the automotive service industry.