German-based Würth Group has announced the acquisition of New York-based Northern Safety and Industrial, one of the largest privately held safety companies in the United States.
Northern Safety is now operating as an allied company within Würth Industry of North America (WINA), one of the largest assembly component distributors in the U.S. The acquisition is the first step in the Würth Group’s plan to enter the safety market.
Founded in 1983 by Salvatore Longo, Northern Safety and Industrial, headquartered in Frankfort, N.Y., is a national distributor of top quality safety and industrial supplies. The company currently services more than 100,000 customers and employs nearly 500 people across its 18 locations.
Northern Safety’s logistics, locations, marketing strategies, and delivery systems fit directly into Würth’s operations. Northern Safety’s e-commerce site, launched in 2000, has become an integral sales and marketing channel for the company, and will fall in line with Würth Group’s growth strategy.
In 2001, Mr. Longo developed the flagship line of NS Brand products, N-Specs Safety Eyewear. Since that time, the NS line of high quality products has expanded to include Gloves, ActivGARD Protective Apparel, Respiratory Protection, Head & Face Protection, ActivFlex Ergonomics, Fall Protection, and several more. The NS Brand complements the other national brand products they provide from suppliers such as 3M, Honeywell, DeWalt, Moldex USA, Ansell Healthcare, and countless others.
“The Würth Group is excited to be adding Northern Safety and Industrial to our family of companies,” said Marc Strandquist, executive vice president of Würth Group. “Northern’s dynamic management team and wealth of knowledge adds depth to our group with their core competency of personal protective equipment and safety supplies. Northern also brings a strong multi-channel marketing presence, which is a key component in the growth strategy for Würth.”
“We’re excited about becoming part of the Würth family,” Longo said. “Northern Safety will be the platform company for safety and industrial supplies. This partnership provides tremendous opportunities for both companies, and we’re eager to explore them together.”