Rexel is strengthening its position in the US in industrial automation and MRO services via the acquisition of Brohl & Appell. The Group thus completes its industrial MRO offering, while providing a springboard to profitable growth opportunities with complementary product and category expansion in the field of energy efficiency. Based in Ohio, Brohl & Appell has about 60 employees. Founded in 1889, the company has built a strong partnership with Rockwell Automation. In 2015, it reached sales of €24 million via its seven branches.
During the year, Rexel also acquired Electro-industrie en Acoustiek, an electrical distribution company based in Antwerp, Belgium, another mature market.
In addition, the Group strengthened its position in emerging markets through the acquisition of Al Mousa in Saudi Arabia and Shangai Maxqueen and Zonghao in China.