News & Media

The strategic addition of UTL to Stealth will significantly boost Stealth’s position as a premier distributor in the Australian industrial MRO supplies marketplace. Stealth’s physical store network will more than double from 33 to 66 across Australia, with six online marketplaces, making it one of the largest distribution networks of company-owned and independent retail combinations in Australia.

Mike Arnold, Stealth Group Managing Director & CEO commented: “The rationale for this acquisition and merger with UTL is compelling. It complements Stealth’s existing business and delivers strong outcomes to our shareholders and stakeholders with our enhanced attractive business model.”

“United Tools is highly synergistic, with a robust product offering and value-added service capabilities, an extensive MRO-specific distribution store network throughout Australia and an experienced salesforce that enhances the strong team Stealth has in place. Combined, it significantly enhances our scale, market position and further strengthens our buying power to accelerate profitable growth.”

“Stealth continues to develop as a business and further enhance its value-added proposition to customers. This includes better experiences through wider ranges, best prices, national distribution footprint, robust eCommerce channels, deeper supplier relationships and unmatched service.”

“Preferred suppliers will significantly benefit as we plan to consolidate arrangements held by UTL and all Stealth subsidiaries into a new master buying & wholesale distribution business unit. This initiative will drive deeper commercial engagement, brand reach and create more value by leveraging group wide buying power potential identified to be more than $200 million.”

“The MRO segment is large, fragmented and highly valued by Stealth in an estimated ~$40 billion marketplace as reported by the company at its AGM held 29 November2021. This provides potential for significant shareholder value creation over the longer term. I’m looking forward to helping maximise each company’s growth potential so they can be the best in their market.”

The transaction is expected to close on 1 March 2022 and is subject to UTL shareholder approval.

About United Tools United Tools

is headquartered in Melbourne and ranks as one of Australia’s largest leading buying & distribution co-operatives of independent retailers that sell tools, industrial and trade related products to business and retail customers. Its store network consists of 35 locations across Australia operating under multiple banners, including the United Tools brand and various independently owned brands. All stores are locally owned and operated and focused on the sale and service of an extensive range of big-name brand industrial and trade related products.

www.unitedtools.com.au