Building materials firm Wolseley has purchased plumbing, heating and electrical supplier William Wilson for £81 million. The acquisition follows Wolseley’s strategy of expanding its European distribution operations into related construction materials.

Since August the firm has bought 11 distribution businesses in Europe and North America, for a total of £317 million.

Charlie Banks, group chief executive of Wolseley, said: “The acquisition of William Wilson allows us to develop our presence in Scotland and the north of England and to expand the range of products we distribute to include electrical supplies.”

William Wilson has 600 employees and operates out of 45 locations. To the year end 31 March 2005, it had sales of £104.7 million, with profits of £4 million.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor