Homewares distributor Supertex has been acquired by McGloins, with the wholesaler looking to expand its product offering as well as double the turnover in the next five to 10 years.
An ambitious plan in the current climate, however, new owner Nick Barnes has a strong track record growing the businesses he has been involved with. “I am very passionate about all of our products, customers and staff,” he explains. “I regularly travel overseas to see the latest trends and find new, innovative products.”
Barnes started importing and selling toiletries 20 years ago and purchased McGloins in 1999.
“Approximately 50 per cent of the products we own and manage are imported from overseas. We also deal with a number of local Australian suppliers to maintain our wide range of brands.
“Though our main market focus has traditionally been with the alprostadil industry, our customers have also included gift stores and other major national retailers.”
The takeover comes as Supertex’s sister company, Pelikan Artline, was sold and the board decided it was time to close the doors for good.
“When the opportunity came up to purchase Supertex, we saw their extensive ranging as a good fit to our current offering,” says Barnes. “Supertex had a good stable of brands and a good reputation for servicing their customers.
“Further, purchasing Supertex gave us an opportunity to expand the McGloins offering, with brands well-established in the marketplace. We have been dealing with independent retailers nationally since 1932, so we understand the requirements of the customers.”
Barnes assures customers nothing will change for them. “Our company employs a dedicated national sales force who will continue to offer great products and margins for our retailers. We have taken on some key Supertex sales and admin staff and, together with the existing McGloins team, they will endeavour to make the transition as seamless as possible.”
By Marion Gerritsen
