Uni-Select Inc. has completed the sale of substantially all of the assets of Uni-Select USA Inc. and Beck/Arnley Worldparts Inc. to affiliates of Icahn Enterprises L.P. The sale was originally announced on Feb. 9, 2015, at a purchase price of approximately $340 million, subject to adjustments based on the net tangible book value of assets sold at closing.
The proceeds of the transaction will be used by Uni-Select to repay its outstanding debt, settle related transaction costs and invest in future growth-driven organic and acquisition opportunities.
“We are very pleased by the conclusion of this transaction, which creates optimal conditions for success by Uni-Select. It strengthens our balance sheet and allows us to focus on creating additional value for our shareholders,” said Richard Roy, president and CEO of Uni-Select. “Uni-Select is now focused on taking full advantage of the leadership position we hold in our two core business units,” added Roy.
The sale transaction includes the following assets and employees:
- The activities of Uni-Select USA;
- The activities of Beck/Arnley Worldparts;
- 38 distribution centers and satellite locations;
- 240 corporate stores; and
- Approximately 3,500 employees.
In connection with the transaction, Uni-Select says a transition agreement is in place to ensure an orderly and smooth transition for employees, customers and suppliers. Uni-Select retains its FinishMaster automotive paint and related products distribution activities in the U.S., as well as its automotive products distribution in Canada, totaling 13 warehouses and 189 stores operated by over 2,400 employees.
“The sale now puts Uni-Select in an optimal position to accelerate profitable growth in our core markets both organically and through select acquisitions. We will continue to strengthen our leading position in the automotive aftermarket in Canada and extend our lead in the automotive refinish business – such as paint and related products, both in the USA and Canada,” said Henry Buckley, Uni-Select’s chief operating officer.
