GUD to acquire Brown & Watson

Australia-based automotive lighting, electrical and battery maintenance specialist, Brown & Watson, has been acquired by Australian public company, GUD Holdings.

With the acquisition, Brown & Watson’s Narva and Projecta brands will become part of GUD’s existing stable of automotive products, which also includes names like Ryco, Goss and Wesfil/Cooper.

“The purchase of this private Australian company employing around 160 personnel will result in it remaining Australian owned, creating further opportunities for the expansion and development of these major brands,” GUD said in a media statement.

Following the acquisition, which is expected to be completed in time for the new Financial Year, Brown & Watson’s Steve Waterham has announced his retirement. In his stead, GUD CEO Bob Pattison (pictured) will assume the role of Chief Executive of Brown & Watson from 1 July.

To ensure continuity for Brown & Watston, Tim Miller will continue in his role as General Manager and Brown & Watston’s executive team will remain in place ensuring business as usual for the company.

“Brown & Watson International has been a very successful business over a long period and GUD intends to maintain this outstanding record,” GUD Holdings Managing Director, Jonathan Ling, commented on the deal.

“We are confident that the management structure in place in both Brown & Watson International and GUD Automotive are well placed to continue to grow each business.”

Distribution of the Brown & Watston product range in the New Zealand market will continue under Narva New Zealand Limited under an agreement with Peter Griffiths and the Griffiths Equipment team.

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