Blue Bird Corporation (NASDAQ: BLBD) completed its acquisition of Girardin Group's stake in the Micro Bird joint venture, gaining full ownership of the bus manufacturer for approximately $200 million.

The transaction was funded through cash and Blue Bird common stock, according to a company statement. Blue Bird previously held a 50% stake in Micro Bird, which was established in 2009 as a joint venture with Girardin Group.

Micro Bird manufactures Type A school buses and commercial vehicles across facilities in Drummondville, Quebec, and Plattsburgh, New York. The company employs approximately 960 people and opened its New York manufacturing facility in 2025 to serve the Buy America-compliant shuttle bus market.

"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," said John Wyskiel, president and CEO of Blue Bird Corporation.

As part of the deal, Steve Girardin joins Blue Bird's Board of Directors. The acquisition consolidates Blue Bird's North American operations under unified management and expands its product portfolio to include Type A, C, and D school buses, plus multi-purpose and commercial vehicles across diesel, gasoline, propane, and electric powertrains.

The transaction enhances Blue Bird's participation in the shuttle bus market following Micro Bird's expansion into Buy America-compliant vehicle manufacturing. Blue Bird describes itself as a leader in electric and low-emission school buses, with more than 25,000 alternative-fuel buses sold since its founding in 1927.