BOUCHERVILLE, Quebec -- Uni-Select has entered into an agreement to purchase the Mid-Atlantic parts distribution operations of Parts Depot Inc.

This is a significant addition to Uni-Select’s U.S. operations, potentially bringing Uni-Select just below Pep Boys in terms of store count. Parts Depot ranked No. 13 on Counterman’s Super Stores of 2007 list; Uni-Select came in at No. 9.

The assets and operations to be acquired by Uni-Select include nine regional parts distribution warehouses and 67 parts stores located in Virginia, West Virginia, North and South Carolina, Delaware, Maryland, Ohio, Pennsylvania and Tennessee, which cater to independent jobbers, installers and, to a lesser extent, retail customers.

Parts Depot will retain its Florida-based warehouse and store operations.

The acquired business and its assets will be included in the activities of Uni-Select’s Automotive Group USA. The acquisition is expected to add annual sales of $180 million. Willi Alexander, Parts Depot president and CEO, will join Uni-Select USA along with the operating management team assigned to the acquired operations.

The transaction is expected to be completed on Sept. 15.

“This transaction supports our strategy of expanding our distribution footprint in the United States. The Parts Depot operations cover a territory that is almost completely complementary to Uni-Select’s Distribution Network and this acquisition provides a wonderful opportunity to continue our growth in the U.S. market,” said Richard Roy, president and chief executive officer of Uni-Select Inc.

“This is exciting news for our employees, customers and vendors,” added Rollie Olson, chairman of Parts Depot Inc. “It will allow both companies to more effectively compete and grow in our consolidating industry. Also, we have found the right partner in Uni-Select as its culture, values and business model, including support of the independent Jobber, are so similar to ours.”