Walter has signed an agreement to acquire the U.S.-based GWS Tool Group, a manufacturer of solid carbide endmills and drills as well as HSS taps and PCD products. GWS is focused on highly engineered customized cutting tools for the American market.
The acquisition supports Walter’s growth strategy in North America. “I am very pleased that we have reached an agreement to acquire GWS, as it will significantly increase our presence in the US and strengthen our solid carbide tools offer in this key market”, says Richard Harris, President of Walter.
GWS has a strong focus on the aerospace industry and provides a complementary product portfolio.
This is a strategic opportunity to increase Walter’s and GWS’ position in the manufacturing of advanced components and light-weight materials. In addition, GWS’ products will expand the overall offering for Walter in North America.
Rick McIntyre, who will remain president of the Company, says: “We are excited to pair our North American manufacturing presence and commitment to service with the vast capabilities, resources and expertise of Walter. This is a big win for our customers, who have always been our most important stakeholder.”
GWS will continue operating as a standalone entity with its own salesforce and brand. The parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price. The transaction is expected to close during the fourth quarter of 2021 and is subject to relevant regulatory approvals.
GWS Tool Group is a North American-based, vertically integrated manufacturer of highly engineered custom, standard, and modified standard cutting tools. The group with headquarters in Florida, is currently owned by a private equity company and has about 500 employees. GWS Group was founded in 2014 as the start of the acquisitive journey from the foundation of the GW Schultz company founded in 1984. To date, these acquired entities include numerous industry-leading specialty manufacturers.
Related Glossary Terms
- high-speed steels ( HSS)
high-speed steels ( HSS)
Available in two major types: tungsten high-speed steels (designated by letter T having tungsten as the principal alloying element) and molybdenum high-speed steels (designated by letter M having molybdenum as the principal alloying element). The type T high-speed steels containing cobalt have higher wear resistance and greater red (hot) hardness, withstanding cutting temperature up to 1,100º F (590º C). The type T steels are used to fabricate metalcutting tools (milling cutters, drills, reamers and taps), woodworking tools, various types of punches and dies, ball and roller bearings. The type M steels are used for cutting tools and various types of dies.
- polycrystalline diamond ( PCD)
polycrystalline diamond ( PCD)
Cutting tool material consisting of natural or synthetic diamond crystals bonded together under high pressure at elevated temperatures. PCD is available as a tip brazed to a carbide insert carrier. Used for machining nonferrous alloys and nonmetallic materials at high cutting speeds.
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