Acquisition

RNS Number : 1258P

Bunzl PLC

19 March 2009

 



19 March 2009

BUNZL ACQUIRES W.K. THOMAS AND INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES IN THE UK

Bunzl plc, the international distribution and outsourcing Group, today announces that it has acquired the businesses of W.K. Thomas and Industrial Supplies from W.K. Thomas & Co Limited (in administration) and Industrial Supplies UK Limited (in administration) respectively. Both companies are part of a group including King UK Limited which is also in administration. 

Based in Chessington, Surrey, W.K. Thomas is a distributor in the UK of foodservice products, particularly to customers in the catering and airline sectors. Industrial Supplies, based in Peterborough, is engaged in the distribution of cleaning and hygiene products throughout the East of England. The aggregate revenue of the businesses in the year ended 31 December 2008 was about £35 million and is expected to run at an annualised rate some 30% lower. The gross assets acquired are estimated to be £0.9 million.

Commenting on the acquisitions, Michael Roney, Chief Executive of Bunzl, said:

'These businesses complement our existing horeca and cleaning & hygiene operations in the UK and we welcome them to the Group. This transaction demonstrates our ability to take advantage of appropriate opportunities as they arise in what is a particularly tough environment in the UK & Ireland.'

Enquiries:

Bunzl plc Michael Roney, Chief Executive Brian May, Finance Director Tel: [phone]

Tulchan David Allchurch Stephen Malthouse Tel: [phone]

 

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