Blue Bird Completes Acquisition of Girardin Group's Stake in Micro Bird Joint Venture

Establishes full ownership of Micro Bird, integrating operations under one brand and leadership team

Apr. 2, 2026 at 3:23pm

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Blue Bird Corporation, the leader in electric and low-emission school buses, has announced the successful completion of its acquisition of Girardin Group's stake in the Micro Bird joint venture. The transaction, valued at approximately $200 million, marks a significant milestone in Blue Bird's strategy to streamline operations and expand its market reach. With the closing of the acquisition, Blue Bird fully consolidates its North American operations, unifying its businesses under one brand, one team, and one operating approach.

Why it matters

The integration enhances Blue Bird's ability to deliver the broadest product portfolio in the industry, spanning Type A, C, and D school buses, as well as multi-purpose and commercial vehicles across diesel, gasoline, propane, and electric powertrains. It also strengthens Blue Bird's strategic position, expands its participation in the growing Buy America–compliant shuttle bus market, and creates value for shareholders.

The details

As part of the transaction, Blue Bird welcomes Steve Girardin to its Board of Directors, adding decades of industry experience and leadership expertise. The acquisition also enhances Blue Bird's participation in the growing Buy America–compliant shuttle bus market, building on Micro Bird's expansion into the segment following the opening of its Plattsburgh, New York manufacturing facility in 2025.

  • The transaction was completed on April 2, 2026.
  • Micro Bird expanded its footprint with a new manufacturing facility in Plattsburgh, New York in 2025.

The players

Blue Bird Corporation

The leader in electric and low-emission school buses, recognized as a technology leader and innovator of school buses since its founding in 1927.

Girardin Group

Blue Bird's former joint venture partner in the Micro Bird joint venture.

Micro Bird

A leading manufacturer of Type A school and commercial buses, established in 2009 as a 50/50 joint venture between Blue Bird and Girardin Group.

Steve Girardin

Joins Blue Bird's Board of Directors, adding decades of industry experience and leadership expertise.

Doug Grimm

Chairman of the Board of Blue Bird Corporation.

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What they’re saying

“This is an important and exciting milestone for Blue Bird. With full ownership of Micro Bird, we are further strengthening our strategic position, enhancing operational alignment, and expanding our ability to serve customers with a comprehensive range of innovative transportation solutions. We are well-positioned to drive long-term growth and create value for our shareholders.”

— John Wyskiel, President and CEO of Blue Bird Corporation

“On behalf of the Board, we are pleased to welcome Steve Girardin and look forward to his contributions. This transaction represents a natural evolution of a highly successful partnership and further strengthens Blue Bird's leadership position in the North American bus market.”

— Doug Grimm, Chairman of the Board

What’s next

The integration of Micro Bird's operations into Blue Bird is already underway, and the company is well-positioned to drive long-term growth and create value for its shareholders.

The takeaway

This acquisition solidifies Blue Bird's position as the industry leader in school bus manufacturing, allowing the company to offer the broadest range of innovative transportation solutions to its customers while strengthening its strategic position and operational alignment.