Midwich adds Irish distributor to cart

Audio visual distributor gains local presence with Square One buy

Midwich has continued its shopping spree by acquiring small Irish audio visual distributor Square One.

Bray-based Square One made 2008/9 sales of €2.7m and partners with the likes of Panasonic, Hitachi and Dynalite.

Midwich’s sales have swelled to about £170m, following an acquisition-packed three years that have seen it pick off a host of smaller rivals, including Synergix, True Colours and the assets of Owl Visual.

Midwich finance director Stephen Fenby said the distributor had increased its sales into Ireland in recent years, despite not having a local office. But a number of vendors had encouraged it to expand its local offering, he claimed.

“We considered that the best way to understand and serve this market was by joining with a local partner,” he said.

“We know that the Irish market is challenging currently, but we firmly believe that, with our support, Square One can grow significantly and be in a very strong position when the market improves.”

Square One will continue to be helmed by current general manager Garnett Stewart.
Its shareholders Criostoir and Ronan McLaughlin have severed all ties with the business following the transaction and will focus on their core business interest of AV integrator Meritec Presentation Products Limited.

Stewart said: “I expect that Midwich’s size and financial strength will be of comfort and encouragement to our staff and vendors alike.”