Mayo companies merge as Portwest acquires Westaro in multi-million euro deal

Portwest focuses on Irish marketplace expansion with its largest ever acquisition in Ireland

Portwest, the Mayo based international workwear clothing and personal protective equipment manufacturer, has acquired Westaro Hosing Ltd., an Irish workwear and safety company in a multi-million-euro deal.

Having previously acquired three companies globally, the acquisition of Westaro is the first Irish investment of this type for Portwest, and leads the way to generate further acquisition opportunities as the company looks to consolidate its position as the fastest growing workwear company in the world.

Portwest Head of Corporate Finance Helen Noud said: “Acquisition of market leading workwear and safety companies is key part of the Portwest groups global growth strategy, and we are delighted to be able to secure this deal within the Irish market.”

Portwest is one of the fastest growing workwear companies in the world.

Founded in Westport, Co. Mayo in 1904, the company is run by the Hughes family, headed up by brothers Cathal, Harry and Owen Hughes.

Portwest currently employs over 5,100 people worldwide, has sales in over 130 countries, warehousing facilities in Ireland, UK, Poland, Dubai, Australia, and USA and four fully owned factories in Asia and Africa.

Portwest Ireland CEO, Rachel Davoren, commented: “We look forward to working with Vincent Kenny and the team at Westaro over the coming years, we are excited about expanding and enhancing our offering to our customer base in Ireland.

"We will retain all staff from the company ensuring a smooth and seamless transition with both companies operating independently until 2024.”

Founded in 1988, Westaro Hosing Ltd has also become a market leader in the Irish workplace, supplying a wide range of protective clothing, footwear, safety, industrial hosing, and gardening products.

Since the business was set up in 1988, directors John Lavelle and Vincent Kenny have been the face of the business, driving its success and growing to employ more than 20 people right across the country.

Westaro CEO, Vincent Kenny, commented: “We are confident that Portwest’s investment along with their knowledge and expertise in the industry will provide the best outcome for our employees, customers and suppliers.”