Ronald Viskil (left) and Richard Doran.
The partnership constitutes a logical extension of a long-standing relationship between the two owner-managed businesses, with Primalec’s Richard Doran and Unicorn’s Ronald Viskil having known each other and traded regularly for over 20 years.
The alliance will see Primalec open the UK market to a wider range of Unicorn’s product portfolio with faster lead times and less currency risk. These lines will complement Primalec’s Glo-Leak UV, Seal Pro, Leaktronic, NitroTrace, Snow Leopard lubricants and Airco Service ranges in both the mobile and static AC and refrigeration sectors.
At the same time, Unicorn Tools will increase the availability of Primalec brands to its own customer base.
The deal puts both companies in a stronger position to take advantage of the opportunities presented by Brexit, while minimising its potential threats. Customers are expected to benefit from a safer, more seamless post-Brexit supply chain than might otherwise be the case should disruption occur at the borders.
Mr Doran said: “The current political situation has been a catalyst for us to agree this strategic partnership which will enable us to offer a more stable and even better service to our customers. We respect each other and will now work more closely together while each retaining our own independence. We are increasing the strengths of both companies without compromising our individual values.”
Mr Viskil added: “With the ongoing consolidations in the industry, it becomes ever more difficult for the larger companies to provide specialist, high quality and lower volume solutions. This strategic alliance will allow both Primalec and Unicorn to maintain their respective specialisms, while opening up doors to larger audiences.”
To support the move, Primalec has appointed Aaron Macfarlane to the newly-created role of senior product manager, acr. Bringing 20 years of automotive air conditioning experience, Mr Macfarlane will manage major elements of both the Primalec and Unicorn Tools acr product portfolios.
Primalec will be exhibiting its products at Automechanika in Birmingham’s NEC on 04-06 June, on stand T150.