Adrian Barden, managing director of Wolseley UK, said:

“I am confident that the time is right to continue our programme of strategic acquisitions to further provide our customers with a greater choice of products and exceptional delivery options through an expanded network. William Wilson has achieved impressive results in its local market, and with the further expansion of its core plumbing and heating businesses and the expansion of the electrical distribution business, the future opportunities for the William Wilson businesses look very strong.”

The acquisition of William Wilson, which has around 600 employees and owns Scotland’s largest bathroom showroom network, will provide Wolseley with a strengthened presence in the local Scottish market. The William Wilson name will be retained, and the company will trade independently of Plumb Center.

Adrian Barden added

“We see robust prospects for the plumbing and heating sector in Scotland, supported by continuing investment in social housing.

“The purchase of the electrical products supply business is consistent with Wolseley’s policy of offering its customers in the construction industry the full breadth of products. This follows our recent acquisition of insulation specialist Encon, and means that Wolseley can demonstrate a clear advantage over its competitors in this respect.

“We are committed to investing in our current portfolio to acquire businesses which strengthen and support our core brands to deliver value added services to our customers”