Germany-based Würth Group – No. 2 on Industrial Distribution's 2014 Big 50 List – announced Tuesday that it has acquired Frankfort, NY-based Northern Safety and Industrial, one of the largest privately held safety companies in the U.S.
Würth, which has a U.S. base in Indianapolis, said Northern Safety is now operating as an allied company within Wurth Industry of North America (WINA), one of the country's largest component distributors. It is the first acquisition for Würth in the safety market.
Northern Safety currently services more than 100,000 customers, employing nearly 500 people across its 18 locations.
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Würth says Northern Safety's logistics, locations, marketing strategies, and delivery systems fit directly into Würth’s operations.
"Northern Safety’s e-commerce site has become an integral sales and marketing channel for the company, and will fall in line with Würth Group’s growth strategy," the company said in a release.
“Northern’s dynamic management team and wealth of knowledge adds depth to our group,” said Marc Strandquist, executive vice president of Würth Group. “The Würth Group has a long-standing strategy of enhancing our product offering. The acquisition of Northern Safety supports that strategy. Their core competency of personal protective equipment and safety supplies is a great complement to our current offerings,” continues Mr. Strandquist. “Northern also brings a strong multi-channel marketing presence, which is a key component in the growth strategy for Würth.”
“We’re excited about becoming part of the Würth family,” added Sal Longo, founder and CEO of Northern Safety and Industrial. “Northern Safety will be the platform company for safety and industrial supplies. This partnership provides tremendous opportunities for both companies, and we’re eager to explore them, together.”
