BOUCHERVILLE, Quebec — Uni-Select has entered into an agreement in principle providing for the purchase of all of the assets of Replacement Parts Depot Limited, also known as RPDL. RPDL is an automotive replacement parts distributor that operates a large warehouse in Rexdale (Greater Toronto Area) in the Province of Ontario. RPDL is owned by and serves 22 automotive parts wholesalers and retailers and a number of independent automotive related businesses that service the Ontario market. As it completes the acquisition of the assets, Uni-Select will also enter into long-term supply agreements with the 22 shareholders of RPDL.
The acquired business will become part of Automotive Group Canada and is expected to add annual sales of $25 million (CDN).
"We have looked at a number of opportunities to increase the presence of Uni-Select in the important Greater Toronto Area. RPDL is the opportunity that will best achieve this goal. Both organizations are very similar in their structure and this will facilitate the integration of employees and customers,” said Jacques Landreville, president and chief executive officer of Uni-Select Inc.
"RPDL has known and respected Uni-Select as a competitor for a number of years. We have found the right partner as Uni-Select’s culture and business model are similar to ours. This transaction is exciting news for our customers and employees. It will allow us to continue growing in this challenging industry," commented Rob Addie, president of Replacement Parts Depot.
RPDL shareholders have approved the sale of the assets to Uni-Select. The closing of the transaction is contingent upon the completion of the due diligence review of RPDL by Uni-Select and customary closing conditions; it is expected to be completed on Jan. 3, 2008.
