Jul 2 2008
3M announced today that it has acquired K&H Surface Technologies Pty. Ltd., an Australian-based manufacturing company specializing in a range of repair products for the professional and do-it-yourself automotive refinish markets. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Automotive repair and refinish products from K&H Surface Technologies are renowned in Australia. K&H brings its surface preparation and auto retail products, body fillers and mold release agents to 3M’s full-line of auto body repair products for the automotive aftermarket, including products and brands from the 2007 acquisition of the business of Bondo Corp.
“The acquisition of K&H broadens 3M’s automotive aftermarket repair solutions offering and builds on last year’s addition of Bondo brand products to our line,” said Ian Hardgrove, vice president and general manager, 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division. “Together, 3M and K&H will deliver a more complete product offering to our customers in Australia and to auto body repair professionals, auto enthusiasts, and consumers around the world,” added Paul Madden, managing director, 3M Australia.
3M’s Automotive Aftermarket Division is dedicated to improving the productivity and profitability of auto body repair professionals. From abrasives to paint refinishing, 3M offers solutions for car enthusiasts and body repair professionals. Products include abrasives and accessories, masking tapes, panel bonding adhesives, general adhesives coatings and sealers, paint finishing polishes and compounds, and paint application systems.
Complementary acquisitions such as this support 3M’s growth strategy to strengthen its core businesses and expand into adjacent markets. K&H employs approximately 60 people at its headquarters in Melbourne.
“3M’s global infrastructure, technology and product development expertise will help to further grow our business in Australia and beyond,” said Ian Lidstone, managing director, K&H Surface Technologies.