Schréder Acquires NLS, Cementing Its 'Buy America' Lighting Strategy

HILLSBORO, Ore. – April 9, 2026 – Global smart lighting leader Schréder today announced its acquisition of NLS Lighting, a Los Angeles-based manufacturer of specification-grade outdoor LED lighting. The move marks Schréder’s second major North American acquisition in two years, following its 2024 purchase of Ligman Lighting USA, signaling an aggressive strategy to expand its American manufacturing capabilities and solidify its position in the highly competitive U.S. market.

This acquisition is more than a simple expansion; it is a calculated response to a shifting regulatory and economic landscape. By integrating NLS Lighting’s American-made product portfolio, Schréder is positioning itself to capitalize on the stringent requirements of the 'Buy America' and the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act, which are reshaping how public infrastructure projects are sourced and built across the United States.

Illuminating a 'Buy America' Future

The BABA provisions, enacted as part of the landmark Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), mandate that all iron, steel, manufactured products, and construction materials used in federally funded infrastructure projects must be produced in the United States. For the outdoor lighting sector, this has profound implications, affecting everything from municipal roadway upgrades to new commercial developments receiving federal dollars.

NLS Lighting, founded in 2014, has built its reputation on high-performance, American-made outdoor LED solutions. This domestic manufacturing focus, once a key brand differentiator, has now become a critical strategic asset. The acquisition provides Schréder, a company founded in 1907 with operations in over 70 countries, with an immediate and robust BABA-compliant product line. This move significantly enhances its ability to compete for the billions of dollars in federal funding being allocated to infrastructure renewal.

"This acquisition reflects our continued dedication to investing in North America and further expanding our footprint to serve the market at the highest level," said Philippe Felten, CEO of the Schréder Group. "NLS Lighting brings strong American manufacturing capabilities, advanced optical innovation, and a portfolio that naturally complements Schréder and Ligman."

By acquiring NLS, Schréder not only gains a product portfolio but also a proven manufacturing base and supply chain rooted in the U.S., mitigating the complex compliance challenges that can sideline foreign-based competitors from lucrative public sector contracts.

A Fusion of Technology and Design

Beyond the strategic manufacturing advantages, the acquisition creates a powerful synergy of technological expertise. Schréder is a recognized global leader in smart city lighting infrastructure, developing sophisticated systems that enhance urban environments through connectivity and data. NLS Lighting, meanwhile, is lauded for its engineering precision and advanced optical designs, particularly its patented Star Power™ technology.

This optical innovation is crucial in the world of specification-grade lighting, where architects, lighting designers, and urban planners demand precise control over light distribution, visual comfort, and energy efficiency. NLS’s expertise in minimizing glare, reducing light pollution, and creating visually appealing environments complements Schréder’s focus on smart, sustainable infrastructure. The combination promises to deliver next-generation solutions that are not only intelligent and connected but also feature superior light quality and aesthetic appeal, meeting the exacting standards of modern architectural and municipal projects.

The NLS portfolio is extensive, covering area and roadway luminaires, decorative post tops, bollards, floodlights, and more. This comprehensive range strengthens Schréder’s ability to offer end-to-end solutions for complex outdoor environments, from university campuses and corporate parks to city streets and public squares.

Beyond the Buyout: A Model for Preserving Value

In a notable departure from typical post-merger integrations that often see acquired brands absorbed and dismantled, Schréder has committed to a 'standalone' operational model for NLS Lighting. The company confirmed that NLS will continue to operate independently under its existing management, led by President Ryan Goldstein. Furthermore, there are no plans to consolidate leadership teams or agent networks, a move designed to ensure continuity and stability for employees, partners, and customers.

This strategy acknowledges that NLS Lighting's value lies not just in its products, but in its people, culture, and established market relationships. By preserving its operational autonomy, Schréder aims to retain the entrepreneurial spirit and agility that made NLS one of the fastest-growing businesses in the industry.

"NLS Lighting and Ligman Lighting USA represent two of the fastest-growing businesses in the outdoor lighting industry. We are honored that both are now part of the Schréder family," said Steve Mills, President and Chief Regional Officer for Schréder North America. "The NLS business will continue to run standalone within the Schréder structure under the leadership of Ryan Goldstein and his exceptional team. We are ecstatic that the entire NLS leadership team will remain intact."

This approach is a clear signal to the market that Schréder intends to nurture its acquisitions rather than simply absorb them, a tactic that can foster loyalty and prevent the disruption that often plagues large-scale corporate mergers. For NLS, the partnership provides access to global resources and support while maintaining its core identity.

"We are excited to join Schréder and be part of a global organization that shares our commitment to engineering excellence and customer success, while preserving our entrepreneurial spirit and operational autonomy," said Ryan Goldstein, President of NLS Lighting.

Reshaping the North American Lighting Landscape

With the acquisitions of both Ligman Lighting USA and NLS Lighting, Schréder is assembling a formidable North American powerhouse. The move strategically positions the company against established domestic giants like Acuity Brands and Cooper Lighting Solutions, as well as global competitors such as Signify. By combining its own global brand recognition and smart city expertise with the specialized, American-made portfolios of Ligman and NLS, Schréder can now offer a multi-tiered solution for virtually any outdoor lighting application in the region.

This trio of brands gives Schréder a potent competitive advantage: the ability to offer BABA-compliant, specification-grade products with advanced optical performance, all backed by the resources and smart technology of a global leader. As cities across North America continue to upgrade their infrastructure with an emphasis on sustainability, connectivity, and domestic manufacturing, Schréder's strategic investments have positioned it as a key player set to illuminate the path forward.