DNOW Inc. Announces Agreement to Acquire Whitco Supply, LLC

Rhea-AI Summary

DNOW Inc. (NYSE: DNOW) has announced the acquisition of Whitco Supply, LLC in an all-cash transaction, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. The acquisition is aligned with DNOW's strategic objectives to diversify end-markets and strengthen shareholder value. Whitco Supply brings a talented team with extensive product expertise, enhancing DNOW's ability to support an expanded set of customers in the midstream and other markets. Both companies will remain independent and operate separately, with further information to be provided after the conclusion of the regulatory approval process and other customary closing conditions. Founded in 2003, Whitco Supply provides energy products and solutions to the midstream market, with approximately 230 employees across eight locations in the United States.

Market Research Analyst

The acquisition of Whitco Supply by DNOW Inc. represents a strategic move to diversify its end-markets and enhance its financial metrics, such as earnings and free cash flow. The integration of Whitco's product expertise and customer base in the midstream sector could potentially increase DNOW's market share and competitive positioning. By expanding into midstream operations, DNOW may mitigate risks associated with market volatility in the energy sector, as midstream services are typically more stable compared to upstream activities, which are directly affected by commodity prices.

From a market research perspective, the synergies between DNOW's distribution and supply network and Whitco's specialized offerings could lead to operational efficiencies and cost savings. However, the success of this acquisition will depend on the effective integration of the two companies' cultures, systems and processes. The market will closely monitor the post-acquisition performance to assess the real value created for stakeholders.

Financial Analyst

Investors should note that the transaction is structured as an all-cash deal, which will impact DNOW's liquidity position in the short term. The financial health of the company post-acquisition will be determined by the price paid for Whitco Supply and the speed at which the expected synergies are realized. A key metric to watch will be the return on invested capital (ROIC), as it will indicate whether the acquisition creates value above the cost of capital. Additionally, the mention of enhanced earnings and free cash flow suggests a positive outlook on the acquisition's impact on DNOW's financial performance.

It is also important to consider the timing of the announcement, as regulatory approvals and closing conditions can influence market expectations and the stock's performance. Investors will be looking for further details on the financial terms of the acquisition, which are not disclosed at this point, to evaluate the deal's fairness and strategic fit.

Energy Sector Analyst

The energy sector is in a period of transformation, with companies like DNOW Inc. seeking to adapt to changing market conditions and diversify their offerings. The acquisition of Whitco Supply allows DNOW to tap into the midstream market, which involves the transportation, storage and wholesale marketing of crude or refined petroleum products. This sector is crucial for the energy supply chain and typically generates more stable cash flows than the volatile upstream sector.

Given that Whitco Supply has a strong foothold in the midstream market and a skilled workforce, DNOW stands to benefit from the expanded expertise and customer relationships. However, the integration of Whitco's operations and alignment with DNOW's strategic objectives will be critical in realizing the anticipated benefits. Stakeholders should watch for the company's ability to leverage Whitco's assets to drive growth and for any potential challenges that may arise during the integration process.

HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- DNOW Inc. (NYSE: DNOW) announced today it has entered into an agreement to acquire Whitco Supply, LLC in an all-cash transaction, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

David Cherechinsky, President and CEO of DNOW, added, “The acquisition of Whitco Supply aligns with our strategic objectives to diversify end-markets and is the result of our patient, disciplined approach to capital allocation. This transaction enhances our earnings and free cash flow profile and strengthens our ability to increase shareholder value.”

“Whitco Supply brings a talented team with extensive product expertise that will enable us to support an expanded set of customers in the midstream and other markets. We look forward to bringing together our two highly complementary businesses and creating greater opportunities for our customers, employees and suppliers.”

At this time, both companies will remain independent and operate separately. Further information will be provided after the conclusion of the regulatory approval process and other customary closing conditions.

Founded in 2003 by the Dawes family, Whitco Supply provides energy products and solutions to the midstream market, as well as the broader energy sectors. Headquartered in Broussard, LA, Whitco Supply has approximately 230 employees across eight locations in the United States.

About DNOW

DNOW is a worldwide supplier of energy and industrial products and packaged, engineered process and production equipment with a legacy of 160 years. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, with approximately 2,475 employees and a network of locations worldwide, we offer a broad set of supply chain solutions combined with a suite of digital solutions branded as DigitalNOW® that provide customers world-class technology for digital commerce, data and information management. Our locations provide products and solutions to exploration and production companies, midstream transmission and storage companies, refineries, chemical companies, utilities, mining, municipal water, manufacturers, engineering and construction companies as well as companies operating in the decarbonization, energy transition and renewables end markets.

Statements made in this press release that are forward-looking in nature are intended to be "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and may involve risks and uncertainties. These statements may differ materially from actual future events or results. Readers are referred to documents filed by DNOW Inc. with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which identify significant risk factors which could cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240206416882/en/

Brad Wise

Vice President of Digital Strategy and Investor Relations

(281) 823-4006

Source: DNOW

FAQ

What is the ticker symbol for DNOW?

The ticker symbol for DNOW is DNOW.

What did DNOW announce?

DNOW announced the acquisition of Whitco Supply, LLC in an all-cash transaction, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

When was Whitco Supply founded?

Whitco Supply was founded in 2003 by the Dawes family.

Where is Whitco Supply headquartered?

Whitco Supply is headquartered in Broussard, LA.

How many employees does Whitco Supply have?

Whitco Supply has approximately 230 employees across eight locations in the United States.