One of the UK’s largest distributors of auto parts, Andrew Page has further bolstered its leading reputation with the acquisition of a rival firm based in the Midlands. With the merger, Andrew Page is set to enhance its exports market with particular emphasis on China and the Far East.

The company has purchased Solid Auto (UK), a firm with over 25 years of experience and success in the vehicle parts sector. Since its inception, Solid Auto (UK) has remained at the front of the Japanese and Asian vehicle components market. The company boasts expertise in a wide range of products, including: filters, braking, transmission, cooling, electrical, engine and steering, and suspension components.

Andrew Page’s acquisition of the firm therefore marks the company’s commitment to those two key markets overseas. Japanese and Korean cars currently make up over a fifth of the UK car market – making parts manufacture and supply highly lucrative. Jim Summer, Chairman of Andrew Page is delighted with the purchasing of Solid Auto (UK) and said it is a further positive step toward its ambition of becoming the first choice suppliers of Japanese and Korean car parts.

Mark Price, Managing Director of Solid Auto (UK) also said he was confident about the future, and believes there will be significant benefits to be had with the merger for both firms.

Andrew Page currently has a strong presence in the UK, as well as the US and Europe. The company is now looking to diversify its client base and open up new opportunities. The company has already reported accelerated growth last year with a significant hike in sales. In fact, Andrew Page has suggested as much as a 12% increase in turnover is evident within its account figures which are as, as yet, unfiled.

Mark Saunders, Chief Executive of Andrew Page was keen to stress that such success was owing to a concentrated investment strategy worth millions of pounds. Last year, the company invested £15m, much of which was spent on upgrading and enlarging its distribution fleet (which now stands at 500). Over £1m was also spent on improving its communications systems. It’s clear to see why Saunders is optimistic about the future.