ATLANTA — Genuine Parts Co. (GPC), parent of NAPA Auto Parts, has agreed to buy Merle's Automotive Supply, a Tucson, Ariz.-based auto parts distributor with 14 locations in southern Arizona.
GPC said it will consolidate Merle's into its U.S. automotive operations once the deal is complete. The chain is expected to generate annual revenues of about $45 million, GPC said.
Financial terms of the pending were not disclosed. GPC expects the deal to close May 1.
"Merle's is a leading automotive distributor in the greater Tucson area, and this strategic acquisition significantly enhances our automotive store footprint and competitiveness in the Arizona marketplace," said GPC President and CEO Paul Donahue, without disclosing the identity of Merle's owner or owners.
"We are excited to welcome the Merle's team to the U.S. Automotive Parts and GPC family and look forward to working with them and continuing our shared tradition of providing quality parts and excellent service to our customers."
Merle's has been in business since 1969, serving commercial and retail customers in the greater Tucson and southern Arizona areas, GPC said.
The business has been affiliated with PartsPlus up to now, according to its website.