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Melbourne-based International Mowers has cut a deal to acquire fellow Australian outdoor power equipment group Atom Industries with the buyout aimed at expanding the business and exposing the local manufacturer to a broader offshore distribution network.
International Mowers, established in 1988 as an Australian-owned distributor of commercial vegetation control equipment, describes the deal for Atom Industries as a landmark agreement that will enhance the outdoor power equipment industry.
Founded in Sydney in 1961 by brothers John and the late Angelo Notaras, Atom Industries designs and manufactures powered portable high-performance lawn and garden equipment.
Its flagship product, the Atom Lawn Edger, is the top bladed edger in Australia and New Zealand, while the company also manufactures leaf blowers, garden tillers, engine drills and augers.
“Atom represents the gold standard in Australian manufacturing excellence,” says Duncan Russell who heads International Mowers with Ella Hamilton.
“For over 60 years, their products have set the benchmark for durability and innovation in outdoor power equipment, and we’re proud to preserve its legacy while expanding its reach.”
International Mowers, which imports and distributes commercial equipment for councils, contractors and farmers, says the acquisition allows the company to step into manufacturing and global export, marking a new chapter for both businesses.
“This is more than an acquisition - it’s the beginning of an exciting new chapter where we’ll combine Atom’s world-class engineering with our international distribution expertise,” says Hamilton.
“We’re committed to honouring Atom’s legacy while writing new success stories for these products in markets around the world.”
Atom products are designed by an in-house research and development team using advanced CAD (computer-aided design) tools and manufactured in Sydney.
The company’s semi-automated production blends robotics and skilled labour to maintain a competitive edge in the market.
International Mowers says that, following the acquisition, manufacturing will remain in Sydney with the existing team in place.
“My brother and I built Atom on innovation and reliability, earning many international awards and customer trust along the way,” says John Notaras.
“With International Mowers, our team, products, and legacy are in the best hands - ready to grow further.”
The acquisition strategy includes an expansion of Atom’s presence in Australia by leveraging International Mowers’ Melbourne and Brisbane hubs and using the group’s marketing and distribution strengths.
International Mowers also plans to enhance the dealer network throughout Australia via strategic investments in partnerships to ensure improved nationwide availability, comprehensive service support and reliable parts supply.
The group also plans to maintain a strong presence in existing markets across New Zealand, the US, Asia and Europe, while pursuing “target expansion where it makes the most sense for the brand”.
International Mowers says while the acquisition will see Atom maintain its existing operations, it also opens new possibilities for expansion and development.
“This approach aims to preserve the company’s core characteristic while supporting its international growth,” says the company.
“The primary focus continues to be on serving Australian professionals and homeowners who have trusted Atom for generations.”
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