STAUNTON, Va. – In yet another move aiding in its expansion efforts, Fisher Auto Parts has acquired McLaughlin Automotive Stores.
The deal was announced yesterday by Walter McLaughlin, CEO of McLaughlin Automotive Stores and Bo Fisher, CEO of Fisher Auto Parts.
“Relative to its size, McLaughlin is one of the most successful and profitable companies in the aftermarket because their dedicated, talented and highly capable team members are focused on excellent customer service,” said Fisher. “We share the same core philosophies and beliefs. We believe this acquisition will ultimately prove to be both a strong strategic and financial positive, enabling us to take another significant step into a geographically contiguous area.”
McLaughlin Automotive Stores is a 37-year-old entity providing service to Rhode Island through eight stores and a warehouse.
“This is an exciting time for us,” said McLaughlin. “We feel that this will give us the strength and ability to provide our employees and customers with an even higher level of service and inventory availability. Customers can continue to be served by the same local people, combined with the systems and services of one of the country’s leading privately owned auto parts distribution chains.”
Fisher Auto Parts’ acquisition of McLaughlin Automotive Stores comes on the heels of its 2010 acquisition of the Pat Young Service Co.’s 46 company-owned stores and dozens of independent jobbers in Ohio. In addition, a 340,000-square-foot distribution center in Staunton, Va. is scheduled to open in December, increasing the total space in Staunton to more than 750,000 square feet.
