Klein Tools Inc., for professionals since 1857, has acquired Civitella & Cia Ltda., a privately-held tool and equipment manufacturer in Brazil. Civitella’s manufacturing and distribution center is based in Sao Paulo and serves customers throughout Brazil. Together, Klein Tools and Civitella can provide a full range of high-quality products for the electrical, construction, oil and gas and telecommunications industries.
Klein Tools initiated its global expansion strategy with the establishment of a Mexican subsidiary, Herramientas Klein, S.A. De C.V. and subsequently acquired Australia-based Mumme Products. The Civitella acquisition builds on Klein Tools’ expansion plans. Brazil is the sixth-largest economy in the world. With its rapidly increasing middle class and already announced major infrastructure investments, Brazil provides a tremendous growth opportunity. By partnering with Civitella, South America’s largest premium grip manufacturer, Klein Tools will further its reach internationally.
“With common core values and business cultures emphasizing high-quality manufacturing as well as strong customer service, Civitella and Klein Tools are natural partners,” said Matthew Thomason, director of corporate development for Klein Tools. “The integration of these two companies creates a winning combination of global reach and national expertise, backed by a commitment to superior products and service.”
“With the upcoming Olympics and World Cup events, there is an enormous amount of infrastructure construction in Brazil,” stated Giuliano Civitella, marketing director of Civitella & Cia. “We feel our customers will appreciate and benefit from the expanded product offering and industry knowledge that comes from partnering with North America's leading premium hand tool manufacturer.”
“To successfully expand into Brazil, Klein Tools needs to have a physical presence in the country,” commented Tom Klein, president of Klein Tools. “The acquisition of Civitella provides Klein Tools with a business operation in Brazil and demonstrates a long-term commitment to the Brazilian market. Civitella is an outstanding company with premium products, excellent service and well established clients that we are proud to join.”
