The details surrounding WAI Global’s PSH acquisition
After WAI Global announced the acquisition of Pos Service Holland (PSH), we were keen to put some questions to Richard Welland, WAI Global’s chief commercial officer, who was kind enough to accept our invitation.
PSH, unsurprisingly given its name, is based in the Netherlands and is a rotating electrics specialist. It provides solutions across automotive, truck, agricultural, shipping and industrial sectors throughout Europe.
We’ve set the scene, so over to Richard to answer our questions:
Q. Why has WAI Global decided to purchase PSH – ultimately, a competitor?
A. “We have been on an acquisition trail for several years, driven by our ambition to expand our footprint throughout Europe. Already a major player in the US market, this acquisition cements our position as the largest player in rotating electrics worldwide.
“The acquisition also enables us to move into new product lines, such as air conditioning, leveraging PSH’s offering. Furthermore, it strengthens our presence in key European markets, like Spain and France, where PSH has traditionally been stronger. It also means we can expand our range of rotating electrics to include OE brands, such as SEG and Denso.
“While WAI and PSH were previously competitors, the coming together of both brands creates Europe’s powerhouse for rotating electrics, unlocking unparalleled opportunities for growth and future success.”
Q. Will the PSH brand continue to exist?
A. “For the time being, it is business as usual as we integrate both businesses and work closer together. In the long term, we will utilise PSH’s Plus Line brand as a valuable alternative to WAI.”
Q. Wood Auto Supplies is part of PSH, so can you explain how this acquisition will impact that company and its staff?
A. “Wood Auto Supplies is a longstanding company name that’s been around the UK for many years. The acquisition will mean that going forward it will integrate into the WAI UK business.”
Q. The headline reads ‘expanding European footprint’ – can you explain how this will impact UK customers?
A. “UK customers will gain access to an even wider range of products and brands. With the addition of PSH’s portfolio and now with the availability of HC Cargo through WAI, customers will benefit from a more comprehensive selection of high-quality products, not just in rotating electrics, but also window regulators, wiper motors, air conditioning, brake calipers, ignition components and more.”
Q. How will PSH’s range complement WAI’s?
A. “PSH’s product range aligns seamlessly with ours, with both brands experiencing impressive growth across Europe over the years. Additionally, PSH’s expertise in the OE sector will enable us to expand and diversify our product offering, ultimately providing customers with an even broader portfolio of solutions for a wider range of industries and applications.”
Q. What extra benefits will motor factors receive because of this acquisition?
A. “As the world’s largest provider of rotating electrics, we now have greater sourcing power and improved efficiency. This scale benefits motor factors and garages through access to a broader range of high-quality products at competitive prices. Beyond rotating electrics, the combined product portfolios of WAI and PSH offer a nearly one-stop-shop experience, ensuring customers have access to everything they need to meet market demands.”
Q. From an industry perspective, what message does this acquisition send out and to your competitors?
A. “The automotive aftermarket is highly competitive, but this acquisition demonstrates that competition can also present opportunities. By focusing on collaboration and growth, we align with initiatives like those of the IAAF, which seek to unite competitors and allies to strengthen the industry. The message is clear: collaboration fosters innovation and resilience, turning competitors into potential partners for a stronger, more unified future.”
