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Launched in 2024, Arbor Permanent Owners is a decentralized holding company dedicated to acquiring and growing smaller, asset-light companies in Australia. Their focus is on “Great Australian SMEs,” market leaders in niche sectors, typically family-owned businesses with EBITDA between A$3M and A$6M. Arbor follows a “long-term hold” model, aiming to retain their acquisitions indefinitely.
After successfully raising A$25M in the past few months, they have completed their first acquisition by purchasing the leading Australian manufacturer East West Engineering. The EV is approximately A$26.5M, including a significant earnout, representing a multiple of around 4x EBITDA.
Established in 1981 by Ron King, East West Engineering is Australia and New Zealand’s leading supplier of forklift attachments and material handling equipment. It serves well-known and reputable OEMs, forklift dealers, industrial suppliers, and companies in the construction, resource, and manufacturing sectors. Operating out of a purpose-built manufacturing facility in Sydney, the company offers the widest range of solutions for lifting, tipping, turning, pulling, positioning, grabbing, storing, and handling any load. Their extensive catalogue includes over 3,000 SKUs and 8,000 developed products. Revenue for 2024 is estimated at A$23.1M, with an EBITDA of AUS$6.5M.
Ron King, founder of EWE, stated: “We have found the ideal partner in Arbor Permanent Owners. Their shared vision and commitment to quality, innovation, and customer support will ensure our legacy continues to thrive and grow.”
Legal: Kain Lawyers / DD: BDO / M&A (Vendor): Grant Thornton
