GODFREY HIRST SOLD

US flooring giant snaps up our carpet company

GEELONG carpet manufacturer Godfrey Hirst has been sold to an American flooring distributor in a deal believed to be worth about $600 million.

Global flooring manufacturer Mohawk Industries, which generated sales of almost US$9 billion last year, has bought Godfrey Hirst which is one of the Australia’s largest woollen carpet manufacturers. animal. As seals are wild animals and protected wildlife, we have to give them the space they need.”

Beachgoers are advised not to feed baby seals, and to stay at least 30 metres away when on land, while dogs are not

Mohawk Industries says manufacturing will continue at Godfrey Hirst and it will leverage its global resources to grow the company.

The Godfrey Hirst acquisition will be subjected to regulatory approvals and is expected to be completed during the first half of next year.

Godfrey Hirst chief executive Rudyard McKendrick said the company employs 335 permitted within 50 metres of seals on land.

“It’s especially important for people to keep their dogs away from seals, as dogs and seals are a dangerous mix,” Mr Breguet said.

“Unfortunately, it’s very people in Geelong, 228 of which are involved in production.

“This is a great opportunity for Godfrey Hirst, our employees, customers and suppliers.

“Mohawk and Godfrey Hirst share a long history as flooring industry leaders and a commitment to product innovation, design and superior customer service,” Mr McKendrick said yesterday. difficult to predict the way that dogs will react to seals. In the past, there have been instances of gentle-natured dogs becoming aggressive, and attacking seals.

“If you’re lucky enough to spot seals at our beaches, then

Godfrey Hirst has been owned by the McKendrick family for the past 50 years and was established more than 150 years ago with a woollen mill on the banks of the Barwon River.

Mohawk Industries Chief Executive Jeffrey Lorberbaum said Godfrey Hirst’s marketing, manufacturing and distribution will strengthen the American company. following these rules will make watching seals a safe and fun experience.”

It’s an offence to feed seals or to breach the minimum approach distances, with both offences carrying a maximum penalty of a fine up to $3171.

“Mohawk’s strategy in Australia and New Zealand has been to build a leading position in the flooring market.

“Godfrey Hirst’s marketing, manufacturing and distribution leadership will complement our current hard surface distribution and strengthen our portfolio.

“We will leverage our global flooring resources and talent to support Godfrey Hirst’s outstanding management and accelerate their growth strategies,” Mr Lorberbaum said.

The sale comes after investment bank Greenhill was appointed in February to find a buyer for Godfrey Hirst.

Mohawk Industries employs more than 38,000 people and has transformed during the past decade into one of the world’s largest flooring companies.

The company distributes luxury vinyl tile, laminate and wood flooring.