Metcash Limited announced yesterday (28 June) that it has entered into an agreement to acquire 75.1% of the Automotive Brands Group (ABG) for $53.8 million.

ABG is Australia’s largest privately owned distributor and franchise operator in the automotive parts aftermarket sector, distributing product to a network of 241 stores. ABG owns and manages the Autobarn franchise, Autopro dealership groups and its Car Parts division services a further 21 independent operators. ABG is the third largest player in Autralia servicing the automotive parts and aftermarket sector.

Andrew Reitzer, Metcash CEO, said this was an exciting opportunity for Metcash as the automotive parts and aftermarket sector provided good growth potential both in terms of growing their existing network and servicing the established 2,500 independent operators and service stations.

“We are very pleased that the Automotive Brands Group will join Metcash,” Mr Reitzer said. “The Automotive Brands Group is a strong business and is a very good fit for us operating a highly effective customer focused business that fits well with our successful model of servicing our grocery, hardware and liquor retailers”.

According to ABG CEO, Paul Dumbrell, the company had been looking to align itself with a business that could improve its brand strength, provide supply and ranging efficiencies and support ABG’s growth strategies.

“We have a clear plan to grow the business. There are thousands of independent operators in the automotive parts and aftermarket sector and they are all opportunities for us. Metcash will add significant value to our business and provide our franchisees and suppliers with the level of support they need in order for us to remain at the forefront of the automotive and aftermarket segment,” Mr Dumbrell said.

Mr Dumbrell, who will retain the remaining ownership interest in ABG, will continue as the CEO of ABG and will join the Metcash Executive team.
The transaction is expected to close in early July.

Source: http://member.afraccess.com/media?id=CMN://2A684099&filename=20120628/MTS_01309338.pdf