As part of AD’s commitment to ensuring a strong future for independent distributors, AD and SafetyNetwork announced that the organizations are pursuing a possible merger in the spring of 2020. This partnership would bring together two organizations to create AD’s only safety-dedicated division focused on the growth of independent distributors that specialize in the safety market.

Marisol Fernandez, AD’s president of the Industrial and Safety – U.S. Division said the group is excited about the prospect of this merger.

“SafetyNetwork members are long-time, well-respected leaders in the safety space, and bring tremendous scale to our already growing safety segment,” Fernandez said.

SafetyNetwork CEO Mike Smeaton said AD’s programs and services will bring tremendous value to his group’s members and supplier-partners.

“I’m really looking forward to introducing our members to AD-unique programs like eCommerce, AD Rewards and market planning,” Smeaton stated. “These offerings serve to make our members stronger, distinguish them from their competitors, and meet their growth objectives.”

Receiving approval by both AD and SafetyNetwork boards to move forward with the process is an excellent signal, AD’s chairman and CEO Bill Weisberg said.

“I appreciate the confidence that both boards have shown with their contingency approvals last month,” Weisberg said. “They are showing exceptional leadership for the betterment of all members. The benefits they see coming from increased scale are compelling and include increased purchasing power, expanded services, access to a larger supplier base and sustainability. In areas where industrial and safety should collaborate, we will collaborate. In areas where they should remain separate, we will maintain separation.”