Genuine Parts Co. Announces Automotive Acquisition In Europe

Genuine Parts Co. (GPC) announced today an acquisition for its European Automotive business, Alliance Automotive Group (AAG).

AAG, the company’s wholly owned automotive distribution company based in London, U.K., has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire PartsPoint Group (PartsPoint). The transaction is expected to close on June 1, and is contingent upon satisfaction of customary closing conditions and receipt of applicable regulatory approvals.

PartsPoint Group, headquartered in Ede, Netherlands, is a leading distributor of automotive aftermarket parts and accessories in the Benelux region. Through a network that includes one national distribution center, six regional warehouses and 147 branches, PartsPoint serves thousands of customers across the Netherlands and Belgium, predominantly independent garages and wholesalers. The company expects the acquired business to generate annual revenues of approximately $330 million.

Paul Donahue, president and CEO of Genuine Parts Co., stated, “PartsPoint Group is a leading supplier of automotive parts and accessories in the Benelux marketplace, and we are pleased to expand our European footprint into this region with such an outstanding organization. We are excited for the opportunities we see in the Netherlands and Belgium, and we look forward to the many contributions the PartsPoint team will make in the years ahead.”

Jean-Jacques Lafont, CEO of Alliance Automotive Group added, “PartsPoint Group is an excellent strategic fit for AAG and an important milestone in our growth strategy in Europe. PartsPoint has a strong and talented management team and we look forward to supporting their long-term growth plans. We welcome the addition of PartsPoint to AAG.”

Federated Auto Parts Distributors announced it is entering into a collaboration with the Association of Independent Oil Distributors (AIOD) – one it said will focus on mutual benefits for the respective members.

“Federated is constantly looking at ways to improve value for all constituents and this agreement provides that,” said Sue Godschalk, president of Federated. “This collaboration provides added volume and opportunities for our suppliers, new partners for our members, and added supply points and products for shop customers. We have enjoyed working closely with several AIOD members in the past and this agreement will expand and create further opportunities for both Federated and AIOD.”