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We are thrilled to share that W&O Supply has acquired GMS Instruments, a renowned supplier of measurement, regulation, and control instruments for the marine and offshore sectors. This strategic acquisition marks a significant milestone for us, as it allows us to expand our service and supply offerings across Europe and Asia. We are confident that this acquisition will bring significant benefits to your operations, and we are excited about the opportunities it creates for us to serve you better. Together, we redefine tomorrow.
— Kristof Adam, Andres van Eijnatten, Bart de Haan
Bergen Op Zoom, 11 June 2024: W&O Supply, a part of PVI Holdings and the leading supplier of valves, pipes and fittings to the maritime industry, announces the acquisition of GMS Instruments (“GMS”), a Netherlands-based supplier of measurement, regulation, and control instruments for the maritime and offshore industry. GMS will be integrated into PVI Holdings, a portfolio company of MiddleGround Capital (“MiddleGround”), an operationally focused private equity firm that makes control investments in North American and European headquartered middle market B2B industrial and specialty distribution companies. The combination will allow W&O and GMS clients access to a broader range of essential parts through one single, expert supply source.
GMS Instruments, known for its specialized high-quality products from brands like WIKA, RIKEN KEIKI, SIKA, and AMOT, will now be available through W&O’s established channels. This acquisition of GMS Instruments significantly expands W&O’s product offering within global maritime markets, establishing a one-stop technical and service base for valves, actuators, pipes, pressure gauges, sensors, gas detectors, thermometers, monitoring systems for newbuild projects and the repair and maintenance needs in the maritime market.
Based in Rotterdam for over 55 years, GMS Instruments has a strong inventory and team of experts ready to meet customer needs swiftly from pressure and temperature to gas detection and monitoring instrumentation. Besides their expertise of over half a decade, they offer certified services, repairs, spares, and more as GMS Instruments operates as a certified service HUB for various OEMs to ensure operational safety and minimize downtime.
Across a network of offices in Europe, US and Asia, W&O provides technical, supply and sourcing advice to ship owners and operators, shipyards and contractors. This acquisition allows W&O and GMS Instruments to provide customers with access to an expanded network of technical experts, who can advise on sourcing the appropriate replacement of valves and instruments, as well as testing and calibration of all applicable products.
As W&O Europe onboards the GMS Instruments team, customers will continue to be able to contact their usual sales representative, at both organizations, to access the products and services of each.
Answer: A thoughtful acquisition strategy is essential for sustainable growth, competitiveness, and long-term success in a dynamic maritime environment. Adding the GMS technical expertise in instrumentation to the portfolio is a major milestone for W&O in our continues strive to be seen as a valuable partner for valves, actuation and instrumentation in the Maritime Industry.
Answer: Our Maritime customers will gain access to a broader range of product support from W&O with adding the GMS instrumentation product group, and all the reputable OEM’s like WIKA – SIKA – AMOT – Clorius – Trafag – Danfoss and many more they represent. We will introduce those brands into the entire W&O network which will create value for our OEM’s and our customers. Access to new technologies and innovations will also lead into more effective and advanced solutions for our customer needs.
Answer: The GMS instrumentation offerings will continue to grow within the W&O Group as we want to support all new market developments currently ongoing in the Maritime Industry.
Answer: Existing contracts and agreements with GMS Instruments will remain valid and unchanged post-acquisition. Customers and manufacturers can expect continuity in their contractual terms, with any potential enhancements being communicated transparently to improve mutual benefits.
Answer: Customer support and service are expected to improve due to the combined resources and expertise of GMS Instruments and W&O Supply. The integration aims to leverage W&O Supply’s robust infrastructure to offer enhanced support, quicker response times, and more comprehensive service solutions to meet customer needs effectively.
Answer: The strategic benefits include a stronger market presence, an expanded product portfolio, and enhanced service capabilities. For GMS Instruments, the acquisition provides access to W&O Supply’s extensive network and resources, potentially leading to operational efficiencies and innovation. Stakeholders can expect improved business stability, growth opportunities, and enhanced value through combined expertise and resources.
Answer: The acquisition is expected to strengthen the supply chain and improve delivery timelines due to W&O Supply’s established logistics network and supply chain management expertise. Customers can anticipate more reliable and possibly faster delivery of products, leveraging W&O Supply’s extensive infrastructure. Furthermore, the integration of supply chain operations will focus on minimizing disruptions and enhancing the efficiency of procurement and distribution processes. Any changes to delivery timelines or processes will be clearly communicated to customers to ensure a seamless transition and continued reliability in order fulfillment.
Answer: The GMS Instruments brand will continue to operate under its established name, maintaining its identity and reputation in the market. The brand’s legacy, built on quality and reliability, will be preserved and complemented by W&O Supply’s strengths. The integration aims to enhance the brand by leveraging W&O Supply’s resources and market reach while retaining the core values and customer-centric approach that GMS Instruments is known for. Any branding adjustments will be carefully managed to ensure a smooth transition and consistent brand experience for customers and partners.
Answer: The acquisition is designed to create growth opportunities rather than reducing the workforce. Employees at GMS Instruments can expect enhanced career development prospects through access to W&O Supply’s broader organizational structure and resources. There will be initiatives to integrate teams and foster collaboration, promoting a positive and dynamic work environment. Additionally, the acquisition will likely lead to the creation of new roles and the expansion of teams to support the combined business operations. Both companies are committed to maintaining a strong focus on employee well-being and professional growth, ensuring that the workforce remains engaged and motivated throughout the integration process. Any organizational changes will be managed transparently, with open communication to address any concerns and support employees during the transition.
W&O Supply is one of the largest suppliers of valves, actuated valves, and speciality products to the marine market. With warehouse operations on three continents, W&O supplies shipyards and owner/ operators with the complete range of valves and piping, direct from its inventory, where they are needed and when they are needed, at competitive prices.
W&O Supply is a supplier wholly focused and expert in the maritime industry. It applies its in-depth knowledge and experience to providing clients with high-value technical consultancy that ensures projects achieve class society approval, meet regulatory standards, and minimise downtime.
GMS Instruments is a specialist in measuring-, regulating-, and controlling equipment. With the exclusive representation of premium brands like WIKA, AMOT, Riken Keiki, and more, GMS Instruments is able to supply various markets within the maritime, offshore and industrial industries within moments’ notice with high-quality instrumentation and service. Whether it’s pressure gauges, gas detectors, engine performance analysers, calibration services or spare parts. Our specialists are ready to provide the best solution to your process.
Thrusting on over 55 years of deep-rooted knowledge, we at GMS Instruments are ready to act swiftly and according to various wishes. We know what it takes to finish the job. That’s our promise. This is how we stay ahead.
The integration of the product portfolios of W&O Europe and GMS Instruments creates a powerful combination for the maritime sector. W&O Europe offers high-quality valves and automation systems from renowned brands such as Dikkan, Emerson, and Alfa Europe, including a diverse range of globe valves, gate valves, and butterfly valves. GMS Instruments enhances this with an extensive range of measurement and control instruments from top brands such as WIKA, SIKA, AMOT, and Riken Keiki, covering areas like gas detection, flow control, and pressure measurement.
This strategic merger results in significant advantages for customers. By combining products like pneumatic systems from W&O with GF Piping systems and diagnostic tools from GMS, customers gain access to a wide array of integrated solutions from a single trusted source, simplifying procurement processes and promoting cost savings. Moreover, the joint expertise ensures faster delivery times and improved technical support. This strengthens our market position and guarantees that customers benefit from the highest levels of service and quality. The combined strength of W&O and GMS offers unprecedented advantages for our customers, including streamlined access to electric and hydraulic systems, and advanced environmental and engine control technologies.
With the acquisition of GMS Instruments, a new management team has been formed to elevate W&O Europe to the next level. This new management team comprises Kristof Adam (Managing Director of W&O Europe), Bart de Haan (Commercial Director of W&O Europe), Andres van Eijnatten (Operational Director of W&O Europe), Rick Rijsdijk (Operational Manager), and Edward van Doorn (Commercial Manager).
With this combination of experienced leaders and experts, W&O Europe is well-positioned to further strengthen and expand its market position. The new team brings together a wealth of knowledge and expertise, enabling us to serve our customers even better and drive innovation in the maritime sector.
If you have any questions as a customer, manufacturer, media representative, or other relational partner of W&O Europe or GMS Instruments, please feel free to contact our joint communication team. They will forward your inquiry to the appropriate contact person, who will respond to your question as soon as possible.
