Aspen buys Australian distributor

AUSTRALIA: UK condensate pump manufacturer Aspen Pumps has acquired a majority stake in Australian wholesaler Pro Pipe Supplies.

Since its establishment in 1999, Pro Pipe has grown from a niche supplier of refrigeration drain pipe to a leading force in the Australian HVAC market. The company has been an Aspen Pumps distributor since 2006.

Expressing his delight at the deal, Adrian Thompson, CEO of Aspen Pumps, said: “This transaction represents an important step in delivering on our strategy of accelerating international growth. We have long standing partnerships with the business and it shares Aspen’s core values of quality products, supported by excellent customer service and strong relationships. We look forward to working even closer with the team and supporting them in achieving their growth plans.”

Pro Pipe Supplies Pty Ltd was established in November 1999 by Brett Spicer in partnership with Bob Babidge. Brett started in the industry at 18 and worked for 11 years with Refrigeration & Heatings Controls (SA) Pty Ltd, a business Bob founded in 1970. Co-owner Steve Markovitch joined the company as managing director in 2006.

Pro Pipe stock a wide range of well-known brands, in addition to Aspen Pumps. These include the support systems of Aspen’s associated company Big Foot Systems, Spectroline leak detection equipment, Rectorseal chemicals and Little Giant ladder systems.