Australian defence contractor NIOA has expanded its global reach with the 100 per cent acquisition of US rifle design and manufacturing company, Barrett Firearms.
In announcing the deal, NIOA Group CEO Robert Nioa said the two family-owned companies came together out of 'a shared commitment to quality, innovation, loyalty, and mission'.
“NIOA’s association with Barrett dates back to 2008. We have been inspired by the story of Barrett and admire what Ronnie, Chris and the family have built over more than four decades,” Nioa said.
“It’s been a story of hard work, perseverance, and purpose culminating in the delivery of critical capability for the men and women of the US military and its allies around the world as well as exceptional products to law enforcement agencies and civilian markets.
“Together we share the same mission - combining our expertise and family business values will ensure Barrett carries on building the finest products in the world.’’
Nioa confirmed the company would continue to operate under the Barrett brand as a separate division within the NIOA Group alongside NIOA Australia, NIOA New Zealand, the Australian Missile Corporation and the group’s investment in joint venture company Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions.
All management and staff at the Murfreesboro manufacturing facility in Tennessee have been retained and production will continue as normal, the company said. Over time it is expected that manufacturing activities in Murfreesboro will be further expanded.
Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
Nioa also announced two key leadership appointments – current Barrett President Sam Shallenberger has been promoted to the role of Chief Executive Officer while long-serving Barrett Chief Operating Officer Bryan James becomes President.
Ronnie and Chris Barrett will provide ongoing support as executive advisers to Barrett and the NIOA Group.
"Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in the Barrett story," Barrett founder Ronnie Barrett said. "Rob and the NIOA team have great respect for the legacy Barrett has created as the leader in long range precision rifles. It’s reassuring to know Barrett will be in good hands with a family-owned company that is focussed on manufacturing and delivering world-class firearms and munitions to a global network.”
The Barrett acquisition continues NIOA’s entry to the US market where it has relationships with American companies such as Vista Outdoors, Leupold, General Dynamics, Northrup Grumman, and the Winchester-operated Lake City ammunition plant.
NIOA Group CEO Robert Nioa has announced the company’s acquisition of US rifle maker Barrett Firearms. (NIOA)
