LKQ Corporation and Uni-Select Inc. today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement for LKQ to acquire all of Uni-Select’s issued and outstanding shares for C$48.00 per share in cash, representing a total enterprise value of approximately C$2.8 billion (US$2.1 billion).

Founded in Boucherville, Québec, Canada in 1968, Uni-Select is a leader in the distribution of automotive refinish and industrial coatings and related products in North America through its FinishMaster segment, in the automotive aftermarket parts business in Canada through its Canadian Automotive Group segment and in the U.K. through its GSF Car Parts segment. With over 5,200 employees, 15 distribution centers and 400+ branches, Uni-Select supports over 70,000 customers annually across the United States, Canada, and the U.K.

Transaction Highlights

  • Compelling strategic fit. The addition of Uni-Select will enhance LKQ’s business and drive profitable growth
  • Complements existing North American paint distribution operations. Uni-Select’s FinishMaster business improves LKQ’s scale and product mix to compete in this attractive and growing segment with minimal integration risk
  • Scaled entry into mechanical parts. Uni-Select’s Canadian Automotive Group provides a scaled position in the attractive Canadian mechanical parts space, with an opportunity for future consolidation and growth
  • Significant cost synergies. The Transaction is expected to generate approximately US$55 million of annual run-rate cost synergies by the third year following closing, plus incremental revenue and margin opportunities across the Uni-Select and LKQ businesses

The Transaction will be implemented by way of a plan of arrangement under the Business Corporations Act (Québec) and is expected to close in the second half of 2023, subject to customary conditions, including the receipt of anti-trust clearances in Canada, the U.S. and the U.K., approval under the Investment Canada Act, Uni-Select shareholder approval, and court approval.