First Priority Group, a diversified manufacturer, dealer, upfitter and service provider of emergency and specialty vehicles, has acquired P.L. Custom Body and Equipment Company, one of the country’s most respected and longstanding ambulance manufacturers, the companies announced Friday.
The acquisition includes all affiliated PL Custom brands, such as Rescue 1 and NJEV (New Jersey Emergency Vehicles).
The acquisition marks a significant milestone in the continued growth of both organizations and emphasizes FPG’s commitment to supporting businesses with a family atmosphere, built on integrity, innovation and service to first responders.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
With this acquisition, both First Priority Group (based in Flanders) and PL Custom Emergency Vehicles (based in Manasquan) will continue operations independently, maintaining their current management teams, employees and facilities. All existing operations and customer engagements will proceed as normal, with no anticipated changes.
First Priority Group CEO Alex Cherepakhov said FPG is excited to support PL Custom’s next chapter while preserving the rich legacy and culture that have defined the company for generations.
“This partnership is about growth, not change,” he said. “Our mission is to partner with PL Custom as they continue to operate independently. Together, we’re preserving the values that matter most in this industry – culture and dedication to serving first responders.
About FPG
Established in 1998, First Priority Group is a diversified manufacturer and dealer of emergency and specialty vehicles. FPG’s Conversion Division is one of the largest upfitters of emergency command and specialty vehicles, providing custom solutions to law enforcement, emergency and commercial customers throughout the U.S.
FPG’s EMS Division distributes new ambulances manufactured by the Demers Braun Crestline group while serving as one of nation’s largest remounters.
“PL Custom is a company we’ve long admired, not only for the quality of their ambulances, but for their people-first culture and deep roots in the industry.”
PL Custom President Deborah Thomson agreed.
“Joining forces with First Priority Group is an exciting step for our company and our people,” she said. “What made this decision feel right is FPG’s deep respect for our legacy and their commitment to keeping our team, culture and operations intact. We remain a proud and independent manufacturer, and with FPG’s support, we are better positioned than ever to grow and serve our customers with the same excellence they’ve come to expect for years to come.”
Founded in 1946, PL Custom Emergency Vehicles is known for its high-quality, custom-built emergency vehicles and its long-standing customer relationships.
First Priority Group will aim to continue supporting PL Custom in maintaining its status as an independent manufacturer and deeply values PL Custom’s family-style culture, commitment to craftsmanship and close-knit approach to customer service. Rescue 1, a division of PL Custom formed in 1985, is a leading manufacturer of custom rescue apparatus known for durability and innovation. NJEV (New Jersey Emergency Vehicles) serves as PL Custom’s premier dealership and service division, providing sales, support and maintenance for emergency vehicle customers.
