Aurelius Equity Opportunities (Aurelius) is to acquire the Belgium-based MPRO and YouBuild building materials merchants from Grafton Group (Grafton).
The combined business of MPRO and YouBuild achieves revenues of close to EUR100 million across its network of 16 outlets employing circa 240 full-time employees. The transaction is expected to complete later this year and is conditional on carving-out the freehold property from the trading entities and on receiving approval from the Belgian Competition Authority.
Both MPRO and YouBuild are strong brands, each with a solid reputation as generalist suppliers of a broad range of high-quality heavy construction products with a high service level, resulting in strong customer appreciation and loyalty. The portfolio of stores is strategically located in the attractive regions of West Flanders, Brussels and Hainaut, and forms a robust platform for further build-up via a continued focus on increased customer proximity and service.
Following the acquisition, Aurelius will support the management team with the execution of the separation from Grafton, after which the focus moves to the further integration of MPRO’s and YouBuild’s operations & footprint, as well as the exploration of growth opportunities in the fragmented market.
“Winning the competitive process for MPRO and YouBuild so soon after opening the Amsterdam office is a fantastic, prompt payoff to Aurelius’ decision to step up its local presence in the Benelux market,” says Gilles van Kooten, Country Manager Aurelius Benelux.
“The transaction once again proves that our industry-leading experience in carve-out situations is highly appreciated by corporate sellers. We expect MPRO and YouBuild to significantly benefit from the attention they will receive under the Aurelius umbrella,” adds Dirk Markus, Group CEO of Aurelius.
