ArcelorMittal has acquired a 70% share of Manchester Tubos e Perfilados S.A, the Brazilian steel processor and distributor located in Contagem, Minas Gerais.

Manchester was founded in 1989 and is privately owned. It serves the construction segment, which represents 50% of its activity, as well as the industry and automotive segments. Its capacity is 240,000 tonnes per year for end products, and 60,000 tonnes per year for processed products like cut to length and slit products. 2007 net sales were BRR 270 million. The company employs 500 people.

This new acquisition will reinforce ArcelorMittal's downstream position in Brazil, following the acquisition on April 3rd of a 50% stake in Gonvarri Brasil. With the acquisition of Manchester, and with its partnership with Gonvarri, ArcelorMittal will widen its product offering in the distribution segment in Brazil. The Group will now offer an extended range of flat products including coils and blanks, profiles, tubes and pipes.

Mr Michel Wurth member of the Group Management Board and in charge of Steel Solutions and Services said “From this new location, ArcelorMittal will target the construction market. Penetrating this fast growing market with a diversified offer, from tubes to structural profiles, is considered as a great opportunity for the Group."