Grafton group acquires UK merchant Thompsons for €3.8m

Irish DIY and builders’ merchant company to widen UK operations

Grafton Group chief executive Gavin Shark (left) and finance director Colm O'Nualain. Photograph: Eric Luke/The Irish Times
Grafton Group chief executive Gavin Shark (left) and finance director Colm O'Nualain. Photograph: Eric Luke/The Irish Times

DIY and builders' merchant group Grafton has bought English operation Thompson Building Centres for €3.8 million.

Thompson had been placed into administration earlier this month.

The acquisition will extend Grafton's UK merchanting business to the northeast of England.

The Sunderland-based Thompsons business was founded 60 years ago and developed a strong position in the northeast merchanting market.

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In January, Grafton reported profits of €33 million on the back of increased sales and lower costs. The company, which owns Woodie's and Atlantic Homecare, grew revenues 6 per cent to €2.17 billion last year.