Wienerberger acquires BPD to strengthen position in roof market
Published: 1 April 2019 - Fiona Garcia
Austrian building solutions manufacturer Wienerberger has announced the acquisition of UK-based BPD Holdings Ltd for an undisclosed sum, to further expand its roof accessory offering and complement its existing roof product portfolio in the UK and Europe.
BPD operates two UK production sites in Nottinghamshire and South Wales and boasts a large product offering, including the Protect, Passivent, Glidevale and Kingfisher brands, as well as a tailor-made solutions service. The company, which posted revenues of around £30million in its latest accounts, employs more than 200 staff.
The acquisition of BPD is part of Wienerberger’s ongoing growth strategy, with the closure of the deal still subject to approval by the Austrian Federal Competition Authority.
The plan is that BPD, as a prominent producer of roof underlays, wall and construction membranes, building ventilation systems and specialist roof products, will become a centre of excellence for innovative roofing solutions within Wienerberger. BPD will be tasked with developing innovative solutions designed to be implemented and sold across the broader Wienerberger network, leveraging the combined regional strengths and product expertise.
Wienerberger’s growth strategy is focused on advancing its market position in the roof, facade, wall and paver sectors, bringing building materials solutions for the whole building envelope to the construction industry. Growth is to be generated through innovation, new product development and selective bolt-on acquisitions. In the UK, Wienerberger currently operates a total of 14 manufacturing plants and employs a workforce of 1,200 people.
Wienerberger AG CEO Heimo Scheuch commented: “The UK is one of the strongest and most innovative markets for roofing products, and a key growth area for us as a business. The acquisition of BPD will strengthen our own position as a full-range roof systems supplier thanks to their reputation for innovation and production expertise. BPD’s specialist roof accessories are a perfect fit with our existing roof portfolio and we look forward to being able to promote them throughout the UK and Europe.”
Founded in 1819 and with headquarters in Vienna, Wienerberger Building Solutions is the world’s largest producer of bricks and clay blocks, as well as being the market leader for clay roof tiles.