ARA made two strategic acquisitions to increase its presence in the insurance building repair and restoration industry during financial year 2024 and one major acquisition in early July 2024, immediately after the conclusion of the financial year.
With increased climate events such as floods and fires, it was determined that this aspect of the building industry is an appropriate space to invest and grow ARA’s capabilities.
During 2024, ARA acquired New South Wales based Urban Building Solutions (UBS) and Australian Insurance Builders (AIB). In both cases, the vendors took approximately half the purchase price in cash and half the purchase price in ARA shares. This demonstrates the vendors commitment to ARA to continue their success and enhance the value of ARA.
Subsequent to 30 June 2024, ARA acquired insurance builder Advanced Buildings and Restorations (Advanced). Advanced has offices throughout New South Wales, Brisbane, Canberra and Melbourne. Advanced is also on multiple insurance panels in the states where they operate. This acquisition provides momentum and geographic expansion for ARA’s growth in the insurance building, repair and restoration business.
Australian Fire Supplies (AFS) is a major distributor of fire protection sprinkler products in New South Wales. This is an example of taking advantage of the ARA ecosystem as we direct purchases of fire protection products from ARA Fire to AFS. AFS is also a fabricator of fire protection systems. The vendors of AFS took all of the consideration in ARA shares, demonstrating their deep commitment to ARA.
Other acquisitions
Sign On has established itself as an award-winning signage specialist, delivering innovative and customized solutions for a range of brands across New Zealand. Their comprehensive end-to-end service, supported by quality manufacturing and fabrication capabilities, ensures a product that is exceptional in quality and craftsmanship. With over 25 years of experience and a portfolio of award-winning work, Sign On brings to ARA Shelters & Structures’ clients a signage solution.
BJ Safety Supplies offers a wide range of high-quality safety products directly to various service, construction and commercial industries at wholesale prices. Their extensive product lines include well-known brands in workwear, corporate clothing, footwear, personal protection equipment (PPE), safety equipment, first aid kits, and essential site consumables. This acquisition takes advantage of the ARA ecosystem as all ARA businesses will be purchasing their uniform and safety equipment requirements from BJ Safety Supplies.
Wheeler Industries, a leader in fire protection solutions, offers an extensive range of fire protection services. The acquisition of Wheeler Industries in central New South Wales is a major geographic investment in regional Australia for ARA.