Toro Crosses the Pond With U.K. Acquisition

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. – The Toro Co. announced Wednesday that it has acquired the assets of Hayter Limited, a manufacturer of consumer and commercial mowing products based in Spellbrook, England.

For more than five decades, Hayter has been a leader in lawn and landscape equipment and is known as the pioneer of the rotary lawnmower in the United Kingdom. Today, the company holds a strong brand presence throughout the U.K. and is recognized for its wide array of innovative mowers including its strong product offering for the city and municipal market. Hayter reported revenues of approximately 26 million pounds Sterling in 2004. (As of press time, this amount equaled just under $48.3 million in U.S. currency, with an exchange rate of 0.538 pounds per dollar.)

"The acquisition of Hayter Limited aligns with our international growth strategy," said Ken Melrose, The Toro Co. chairman and CEO. "The United Kingdom is a significant turf market and Hayter's product line will complement and enhance Toro's solution set. Hayter brings us a well-established base of engineering, manufacturing and a similar culture and commitment to product excellence. I am confident the pairing of Toro and Hayter will strengthen our position in this market and provide new growth opportunities."

Under terms of the agreement, Toro will acquire Hayter's operating assets, intellectual property, manufacturing operations and approximately 200 employees, all of which will continue to operate under the Hayter name. Hayter's Managing Director Derek Boulton will also continue to oversee the company's operations.

"This acquisition is very positive news for our employees, suppliers, dealers and end-line customers," Boulton said. "This relationship will provide new opportunities for both Toro and Hayter and we are very optimistic about the future."