Brookfield to acquire Reliance Worldwide in $2.9bn deal

Brookfield Asset Management has reached an agreement to acquire Australian plumbing products manufacturer Reliance Worldwide Corporation in a deal valued at approximately AUD4.1bn ($2.9bn). Under the terms of the all-cash transaction, Brookfield will pay AUD4.75 per Reliance Worldwide share, which represents a 32% premium to the company's closing share price on August 17, prior to the two entities disclosing their discussions over a potential merger.

The acquisition aims to give Brookfield greater exposure to the US construction and residential housing markets, which contribute around 60% of Reliance Worldwide's revenue. The remaining portion of the company's sales is generated across Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East. Established in 1949, Reliance Worldwide is renowned for its SharkBite range of push-to-connect plumbing fittings, which enable connections without the need for specialized tools.

The acquisition strengthens Brookfield's extensive investment portfolio in Australia, where the global asset manager operates in various sectors, including real estate, infrastructure, and private equity. Goldman Sachs is serving as the deal's advisor, subject to customary conditions and approvals.