TriCan acquisition marks ATD expansion into Canada

The Canadian subsidiary of US company American Tire Distributors has acquired the outstanding shares of Tire West Trading (Canada) Ltd., an Alberta-based firm that trades under the name TriCan Tire Distributors. With this purchase, ATD has expanded its distribution services beyond the borders of the United States for the first time, something the company refers to as a “significant step”.

“Given the similarities of Canada’s retail structure and leading tyre brands, expanding ATD’s footprint and distribution services into Canada represents a natural step for the company’s growth plan,” said William ‘Bill’ Berry, president and chief executive officer of American Tire Distributors. “After thoroughly evaluating the marketplace, it became clear that TriCan was going to be the best partner for us in Canada.”

TriCan was founded in 1978 and operates 15 distribution centres in Canada. American Tire Distributors will operate TriCan as a standalone business unit, and as such TriCan will retain its company name and its management team, led by Chris Fletcher who has been president of TriCan since October 2006.

Fletcher described the acquisition announcement as “very positive news for TriCan’s customers and employees.” He added: “By offering more products from larger distribution centres, while our team continues to deliver unsurpassed customer service, TriCan will further differentiate itself as the leading distributor in Canada.”

Starting next year, ATD plans to begin expanding TriCan’s existing distribution centres to support a broader product screen offering to customers. The company also intends to add several new distribution centres across Canada by opening greenfield locations and potentially acquiring other Canadian distributors.